Bundesliga: Grimaldo's Magic Helps Leverkusen Edge St Pauli 2-1

Leverkusen holds on for 2-1 win over St Pauli

Bayer Leverkusen secured a 2-1 win over St Pauli, thanks to Alejandro Grimaldo's crucial set piece and goals from Edmond Tapsoba and Ernest Poku.

“Three points is the best accelerator for development. The team showed a super character and, at times, played well. But obviously we need to improve...”

Alejandro Grimaldo's magic touch proved crucial for Bayer Leverkusen as they secured a 2-1 victory over St. Pauli. Grimaldo's expertly floated free kick into the box set off a chain reaction, and Edmond Tapsoba capitalized on a poor clearance to score the opening goal from close range in the 25th minute.

The win maintained Bayer Leverkusen's league-record unbeaten run on the road. Despite St. Pauli's efforts, Leverkusen's defense held firm, and Ernest Poku added a second goal to seal the victory. The win extends Leverkusen's impressive away record, showcasing their consistency and strength in the league.

Bayer Leverkusen, the 2024 domestic double winners and last season's runners-up, are currently facing challenges in terms of form. The team has undergone significant changes after losing key players like Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Granit Xhaka, as well as their successful coach Xabi Alonso. New coach Kasper Hjulmand believes that with time, the team can improve and become a formidable force again.

“We will build from here for sure,” Hjulmand said, emphasizing the importance of development. “Three points is the best accelerator for development. The team showed a super character and, at times, played well. But obviously we need to improve.” Hjulmand's focus is on gradual progress, allowing the team to gel and find its rhythm. Leverkusen's current league position is 11th, with five points from four games, seven points behind league leaders Bayern Munich.

Hard-fought win! 💪

90+6 | 1-2 | #FCSPB04 pic.twitter.com/rkAkG6Nuxz

— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) September 27, 2025

The team's upcoming fixtures, including a match against St Pauli and a Champions League game against PSV Eindhoven, will be crucial in determining their trajectory. Despite the struggles, Leverkusen boasts an impressive away record, having gone unbeaten in 35 consecutive Bundesliga matches. Hjulmand's task is to build on this foundation, fostering a cohesive unit that can challenge for top honors.

“We are trying to build this team. We had 75% new players in my first match, 75% new coaching staff. We want to build the team in the way we want to play. If you think this will happen overnight, you are wrong,” he said.

Kasper Hjulmand's Leverkusen faced a setback when St Pauli equalized through Hauke Wahl in the 32nd minute. However, Alejandro Grimaldo's brilliance restored Leverkusen's lead with a perfectly timed assist for Ernest Poku in the 58th minute. Poku's precise shot past Nikola Vasilj secured the win for Leverkusen.

Read Also: Bayer Leverkusen's Unbeaten Run Continues: Kasper Hjulmand's Team in Focus

The victory extended Leverkusen's undefeated run in away Bundesliga matches to 36 games, a testament to their consistency. With this win, Leverkusen climbed to fourth place with eight points, although they trail league leaders Bayern Munich by seven points. Leverkusen's next challenge is their Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven.