Leverkusen Dominates Frankfurt to Maintain Pressure on Bayern

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Leverkusen scored three goals in seven minutes.
- Xabi Alonso's team is pressuring Bayern Munich.
- Granit Xhaka played a pivotal role in the victory.
- Leverkusen's win keeps them in the title race.
- Frankfurt managed to score one goal.
Berlin, March 2 (NationPress) Three goals within a span of seven minutes set the stage for Bayer Leverkusen's impressive 4-1 triumph over third-placed Eintracht Frankfurt during the 24th round of the Bundesliga on Saturday, as Leverkusen kept the pressure on top-ranked Bayern Munich.
Xabi Alonso's team controlled the match from the outset, gradually asserting dominance. Granit Xhaka orchestrated much of Leverkusen's offense, and his keen vision resulted in the opening goal at the 26th minute. Identifying a weak spot in Frankfurt's defense, he delivered the ball to Nathan Tella, who calmly placed it past goalkeeper Kevin Trapp into the bottom left corner.
The visitors extended their lead just three minutes later when Nordi Mukiele capitalized on a defensive mishap from a corner and scored from close range.
Leverkusen maintained their pressure, and Patrick Schick soon increased the score to 3-0 when another precise pass from Xhaka reached Alejandro Grimaldo, whose cross was converted by the Czech striker in the 33rd minute.
Frankfurt found a glimmer of hope as Hugo Ekitike managed to beat goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky and netted a goal for the hosts at the 37-minute mark.
After the break, Frankfurt continued to push forward, and Elye Wahi tested Hradecky in the 50th minute, but Leverkusen secured the victory at the hour mark with Aleix Garcia's shot hitting the bottom corner.
"The match went smoothly, but our attitude was equally crucial. For me, it was nearly flawless. Consistency is vital, and this match has given us a fantastic feeling for the upcoming challenges. The entire team is prepared for the decisive part of the season," stated Alonso.
With this win, Leverkusen now sits eight points behind Bayern Munich.
In other matches, Mainz surged into the top four with a 2-1 comeback victory against Leipzig. Wolfsburg triumphed with a 2-1 win over struggling Werder Bremen, who faced their fourth consecutive league defeat. Robin Hack's brace guided Borussia Monchengladbach to a 3-0 victory over Heidenheim. Borussia Dortmund achieved their second consecutive win, defeating St. Pauli 2-0, while relegation-threatened Bochum fell 1-0 to Hoffenheim.