LEIPZIG, Germany, Jan 22 (Reuters) - RB Leipzig secured their first victory of the UEFA Champions League campaign, winning 2-1 against Sporting CP at the Red Bull Arena. The match not only marked Leipzig's first victory after six consecutive losses but also dealt a significant blow to Sporting's hopes of advancing past the group stage.
Leipzig, already eliminated from progression, showcased determination and skill to take the lead early on. Benjamin Sesko opened the scoring just 19 minutes in, sliding to connect with David Raum's perfectly-timed cutback. This goal energized the home side, which needed to end their dismal run after failing to secure any points until this match.
Despite Leipzig's promising start, the visitors didn't back down. Sporting CP, who have faced recent struggles themselves—including two consecutive losses to close out 2024—equalized after Viktor Gyokeres maneuvered through Leipzig's defense and shot high to find the back of the net with just 15 minutes to play.
The joy for Sporting was short-lived. Just three minutes after the equalizer, Leipzig responded decisively. Yussuf Poulsen, returning from injury, scrambled the ball over the line to seal the 2-1 victory for Leipzig. With this win, Leipzig hopes to build on some momentum and finish their Champions League campaign on a high note, even if it will not lead to advancement.
"RB Leipzig's Yussuf Poulsen scores their second goal," reported by Reuters, highlighting the significance of Poulsen's return and contribution to the team. Following the match, Leipzig's coach Marco Rose praised the team's performance, noting, "We needed this win to get back on track and build confidence for the rest of the season, regardless of our Champions League exit."
Sporting's coach Rui Borges, on his Champions League debut, acknowledged the challenges his team faced. After the match, he expressed disappointment but remained hopeful, stating, "We must learn from these experiences and come back stronger. Our focus now shifts to improving our league performance and regrouping for the next matches." Sporting's precarious position (19th with 10 points) complicates their ability to bounce back as they head toward the league knockouts.
Both teams illustrated the emotional highs and lows of competitive football throughout the match. Leipzig, driven by the urgency of earning points for pride after being eliminated, made adjustments effectively, whereas Sporting demonstrated flashes of promise but struggled with consistency. The energy within the Red Bull Arena reflected the investment and passion both clubs pour onto the field.
Although Leipzig's position remains lowly, sitting 34th with 0 points, this victory could ignite much-needed performance improvements. The match illustrated the unpredictable nature of football, where form can shift dramatically between games. Supporters from both sides eagerly anticipate the upcoming fixtures, hoping for continued growth and success in their respective leagues.
Season-ending injuries to key players like Benjamin Henrichs add pressure on Leipzig's squad, which has already experienced several challenges this season. The match against Sporting will be key for establishing momentum for the Bundesliga return and healing psychological wounds resulting from past performances.
Sporting Lisbon faces issues of their own with scattered injuries—such as Pedro Goncalves' absence—which affect their tactical decisions moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will be monitoring how both teams adapt and proceed through the remainder of the season. Yet for at least one night, Leipzig celebrated their victory, momentarily silencing the critics as they gear up for the next chapter of their competitive ordeal.