Bayer Leverkusen emerged victorious with a commanding 5-1 win over SC Freiburg, closing the gap on Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich to just four points as the league inches toward its winter break.
On December 22, 2024, the match at the Bayer Arena was marked not only by thrilling play but also by the somber mood surrounding German football following the tragic events of the previous day, when five lives were lost and more than 200 were injured during a car attack at the Christmas market in Magdeburg. Respectfully, players from both teams donned black armbands, and matches commenced with a minute’s silence.
Within the game itself, it was Bayer Leverkusen’s star Florian Wirtz who seized the spotlight—despite his early penalty miss—and turned the tide decisively toward his team's favor. Although Freiburg’s goalkeeper Noah Atubolo managed to deny Wirtz's penalty attempt, the young German quickly redeemed himself by assisting his teammate Patrik Schick. Wirtz’s dexterity and vision were exemplified when he expertly set up Schick for the opening goal just before half-time, which shifted the momentum firmly in Leverkusen's favor.
"I was astonished several times during the game," Freiburg’s forward Michael Gregoritsch admitted post-match. He continued, "It feels like he does whatever he wants, and it works; it’s a joy to watch," evidently amazed by Wirtz's remarkable skills throughout the match.
After Leverkusen's first goal, the rain began to fall steadily, turning the pitch slick and difficult. The contest only intensified, with Wirtz demonstrating why he’s considered one of the brightest talents in German football. Just seconds after the break, Wirtz rifled home Leverkusen's second goal of the match—a brilliant strike from the edge of the box, showcasing his range and finishing ability. It wasn’t long before Freiburg’s Vincenzo Grifo managed to capitalize on Leverkusen’s defensive lapse, pulling one back with a well-placed shot, igniting hopes for the visitors.
Yet, it was Leverkusen's day. Wirtz, undeterred by past setbacks, claimed his place back at the center of the action and re-established his side's two-goal lead with yet another assist to Schick, who headed home for his second. Schick then completed his hat-trick with another well-placed effort, effectively sealing the victory for the reigning champions.
Granit Xhaka, Wirtz’s teammate, voiced his admiration for the connection between the two forwards: "We are very happy to have these two players. Patrick knows exactly where the goal is. They communicate very well and understand each other very well," he shared, reflecting on the synergy Leverkusen displayed.
The team, managed by Xabi Alonso, demonstrated not only skill but also mental resilience, traits Alonso noted after the match. "The boys are in good shape, with a good flow and good energy," he pointed out, emphasizing the importance of the team's collective mindset. This victory marked the eighth consecutive win for Leverkusen across all competitions, reviving their title hopes after what had been earlier struggles. The gap to Bayern had shrunk from nine points at the start of November.
Despite his early penalty miss, Wirtz continued to inspire with his remarkable play and is increasingly viewed as the key to Leverkusen's successes. There is now growing speculation surrounding his future, with suggestions he could be persuaded to remain at the club for another season, rather than moving on to larger clubs as expected. After the victory, fans began dreaming once more of European glory—a Champions League title might not be too far-fetched after all.
While Bayer Leverkusen and their supporters celebrated, the Bundesliga title race appears more competitive than it has for some time, as they continue to challenge Bayern Munich’s long-standing dominance. With the upcoming winter break, all eyes will be on how teams regroup and strategize for the subsequent matches. The league's next chapter begins anew on January 10, with gripping encounters expected to resume.
Bayer Leverkusen's emphatic win leaves no doubt about their formidable presence this season, bringing excitement and anticipation to the Bundesliga as it heads to the winter break, and marking Wirtz as the player who makes fans all over envy.
