Schick’s acrobatic finish helps Leverkusen see off Leipzig

A closely fought first half between two of the Bundesliga’s top sides ultimately turned into a comfortable evening for Bayer Leverkusen. Patrik Schick and Miguel Gutiérrez scored either side of half-time to secure a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig.

Leverkusen players celebrating.

Photo: Alex Grimm / Getty Images.

Bayer Leverkusen claimed a 2-0 victory over RB Leipzig in a highly anticipated meeting between two of the Bundesliga’s leading sides. Here is our full match report:

Match report: Bayer Leverkusen vs. RB Leipzig

The opening half-hour lived up to expectations, with both teams creating opportunities in an even contest. Leipzig’s Banzuzi came closest for the visitors, while Ibrahim Maza had Leverkusen’s best opportunity, but neither side could find the breakthrough.

Leipzig then suffered a setback when Brajan Gruda was forced off with an injury. The extent of the problem is currently unclear. The 21-year-old had been included by Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp in the second squad for the upcoming international break, meaning the injury could also be a concern for the national team.

Leipzig appeared to have taken the lead when Christopher Nkunku found the net on his return to the starting XI. However, the goal was ruled out for offside, meaning the Frenchman’s balloon celebration was ultimately for nothing.

Leverkusen then produced a moment of individual brilliance shortly before half-time. Miguel Gutiérrez picked out Patrik Schick, who produced an acrobatic finish to put the hosts 1-0 ahead. It's Schick's 4th goal in his 4th Bundesliga match this season, which means he is the only player to score on every Matchday so far!

Leipzig were expected to come out strongly after the break, but instead Leverkusen increased their advantage.

Gutiérrez was involved once again in the 57th minute, this time finding the back of the net himself to make it 2-0.

The second goal effectively settled the contest. Leverkusen were not completely dominant, but Leipzig struggled to put together the final pieces of their attacking moves and create clear opportunities.

One of the standout performers was Ibrahim Maza. The young midfielder repeatedly showed his technical ability and was one of the brightest players on the pitch, further underlining his potential to become a star player for Leverkusen in the future.

In the end, Schick and Gutiérrez made the decisive difference as Leverkusen secured a convincing 2-0 win over Leipzig.