Boniface SCORES as Bayer Leverkusen Close Gap on Bayern
Nigerian forward Victor Boniface played a key role as Bayer Leverkusen defeated VfL Bochum 3-1 to keep the pressure on Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich. The win reduces the gap at the top to three points, at least for now.
Leverkusen were aware that they needed to capitalise on this opportunity, especially after Bochum’s shock 3-2 win over Bayern weeks ago. They started slowly but gained momentum, taking the lead in the 20th minute when Aleix Garcia curled a fine shot past Timo Horn.
However, a mistake from Granit Xhaka allowed Bochum to equalise. The Swiss midfielder’s misplaced header set up Georgios Masouras, whose shot was saved, but Felix Passlack reacted quickly to score a stunning volley on the rebound.
Boniface on Target
Leverkusen struggled to respond before half-time, but manager Xabi Alonso’s team talk made an impact. Boniface and Patrik Schick both had early chances in the second half, with Leverkusen showing more attacking intent.
Bochum had a brief moment of danger when Matus Bero forced Lukas Hradecky into a save, but Leverkusen soon regained the lead. Garcia’s free kick found Piero Hincapie, who headed the ball across goal for Boniface to finish from close range.
The Nigerian nearly doubled his tally when he found the net again, but his goal was ruled out for offside. Still, Leverkusen sealed the win in the closing minutes when Amine Adli latched onto Exequiel Palacios’ pass and slotted past Horn.
Leverkusen’s Title Push
With back-to-back wins after a difficult run, Leverkusen are finding form at the right time. They are aiming to become the first Bundesliga team to overcome a six-point deficit at this stage of the season since Stuttgart in 2006/07.
Meanwhile, Bochum remain in danger of relegation after four years in the top flight.
