Mainz goalkeeper’s blunder Gifts Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen narrow victory, extending lead to 11 points over Bayern Munich

Leverkusen's Granit Xhaka and Mainz's Dominik Kohr scored early goals, Robert Andrich secured a 2-1 home win for Xabi Alonso's team, despite his goal being fortuitous due to Mainz's goalkeeper's error.

Chirag

February 24, 2024

Mainz Goalkeeper Gifts Bayer Leverkusen Victory — Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images, Hesham Elsherif/Anadolu via Getty Images

After early goals by Granit Xhaka from Leverkusen and Dominik Kohr from Mainz, Robert Andrich sealed a 2-1 victory for Xabi Alonso’s team on Friday evening. However, Andrich’s decisive goal came somewhat lucky, as goalkeeper Zentner failed to block his speculative long-range attempt. The visitors’ misfortune worsened when Jessic Ngankam received a red card with just 10 minutes remaining.

Bayer Leverkusen, often dubbed “Neverkusen” for their history of missing opportunities to secure trophies, especially between 2000-2002, have never clinched the Bundesliga title. Yet, with only 11 games left in the season, they are widening the gap ahead of Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich. With an undefeated record this season, Leverkusen is poised for a potential treble, still competing in the Europa League and DFB-Pokal.

Bayern Munich has the chance to reduce the gap to eight points on Saturday as they face RB Leipzig at home. Leverkusen’s next league match is on March 3 against Koln, while Thomas Tuchel’s squad travels to Freiburg two days earlier.