Bayer Leverkusen kept the pressure on Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich with a crucial 3-1 victory over VfL Bochum on March 28, 2025. The match, held at the BayArena, showcased Leverkusen's determination to close the gap in the title race, bringing them within just three points of Bayern.
Leverkusen started strong, dominating possession and creating opportunities early on. Their efforts paid off in the 20th minute when Aleix García found the back of the net, scoring with a bending shot from just outside the area. This goal was set up by Exequiel Palacios, who displayed excellent vision to assist García.
However, Bochum quickly responded, equalizing just six minutes later through Felix Passlack. The defender unleashed a stunning volley from outside the box that sailed over Leverkusen's goalkeeper, Lukáš Hrádecký, leaving the home crowd stunned. This unexpected goal breathed new life into Bochum, who had been struggling to find their footing in the match.
As the teams headed into halftime at 1-1, the intensity of the match only heightened. The second half saw Leverkusen emerge with renewed vigor, determined to regain their lead. Their persistence paid off in the 60th minute when Victor Boniface restored the home team's advantage. Following a free-kick taken by García, Piero Hincapié found Boniface at the far post, allowing him to finish from close range. The goal was confirmed by VAR, much to the relief of the Leverkusen supporters.
Leverkusen continued to press forward, and their dominance was evident as they created several chances. Amine Adli, who had been a constant threat throughout the match, sealed the victory in the 87th minute. Adli scored after receiving a well-timed pass from Palacios, who had been instrumental in Leverkusen's attacking play, providing two assists on the day.
Despite the final score, the match was not without its drama. In the 70th minute, Leverkusen's assistant coach Sebastián Parrilla received a yellow card, followed closely by Bochum's assistant coach Marc-André Kruska in the 87th minute. In injury time, Granit Xhaka almost added a fourth goal for Leverkusen, but his powerful shot struck both posts before bouncing clear, further intensifying the excitement of the closing moments.
With this victory, Leverkusen moves to 59 points in the Bundesliga standings, sitting in second place, just three points behind Bayern Munich, who are set to face St. Pauli later in the day. The win is particularly significant as it keeps Leverkusen firmly in the title race with only seven matches remaining in the season.
Leverkusen's performance was marked by their attacking prowess, with Boniface leading the charge. He had the most shots on goal for his team and was instrumental in their offensive efforts. Meanwhile, Palacios not only contributed with assists but also controlled the tempo of the game, showcasing his importance in the midfield.
As the Bundesliga season approaches its climax, Leverkusen's determination to chase down Bayern Munich is palpable. With a strong showing against Bochum, they have sent a clear message that they are ready to fight for the title.
