RB Leipzig's hopes for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification were dashed on Saturday, May 10, 2025, following a disappointing goalless draw against Werder Bremen at the Weserstadion. The result not only ended Leipzig's aspirations for Europe but also marked a significant moment for the club, which had only missed out on Champions League football once in their eight seasons since their promotion to the Bundesliga in 2017.
In a match that saw Leipzig struggle to find the back of the net, it was Xavi Simons who came closest to breaking the deadlock. The young talent hit the post in the 68th minute and forced a crucial save from Bremen's goalkeeper Michael Zetterer just two minutes later. Despite their efforts, Leipzig was unable to secure the victory they desperately needed to keep their European dreams alive.
Now, with one match remaining in the season, Leipzig must defeat Stuttgart to have any hope of qualifying for the Europa League. The pressure is on as Jurgen Klopp, who recently took over as the football chief at RB Leipzig's owners Red Bull, prepares for his first off-season without the promise of Champions League football.
Meanwhile, the day also saw the relegation of both Holstein Kiel and VfL Bochum from the Bundesliga. Kiel, who had been promoted to the top flight for the first time this season, faced a must-win situation against SC Freiburg but ultimately fell short, losing 2-1. Kiel initially took the lead with a goal from Lasse Rosenboom, but Freiburg responded with an equalizer from Johan Manzambi just before halftime. Lucas Hoeler then scored the decisive goal early in the second half, sealing Kiel's fate.
Freiburg's victory not only ensured their survival in the Bundesliga but also put them in a strong position for Champions League qualification, as they currently sit four points clear of Borussia Dortmund, who have two matches left to play.
Bochum's relegation was confirmed following a heavy 4-1 defeat at home to Mainz. The loss marked the end of Bochum's four-year stint in the Bundesliga. Mainz's scoring was led by Germany internationals Nadiem Amiri and Jonathan Burkardt, along with goals from Phillipp Mwene and Paul Nebel. Bochum, who had shown resilience earlier in the season with notable victories against Bayern Munich and Dortmund, struggled to find form in the final stretch, managing only two points from their last eight matches.
As the Bundesliga season draws to a close, the focus now shifts to the remaining fixtures, with Bayern Munich set to be presented with the league trophy after their match against Borussia Moenchengladbach later on Saturday. Bayern secured their 34th league title last week after Bayer Leverkusen was held to a 2-2 draw at Freiburg.
With the relegation battle concluded and the Champions League spots still up for grabs, the final matchday promises to be an exciting conclusion to the Bundesliga season.
