Goals from Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah and Florian Wirtz secured three points important points for Bayer Leverkusen as they overcome an RB Leipzig side that came into this game full of confidence after their Supercup win against Bayern Munich last weekend.
Jeremie Frimpong won’t score an easier goal all season. The Dutchman found himself on the end of a low cross by Victor Boniface. The duo are already showcasing a blossoming partnership that will only improve over time. After losing Moussa Diaby to Aston Villa, keeping Frimpong is significant for Die Werkself.
Jonathan Tah then doubled Bayer Leverkusen’s lead but not before Dani Olmo pulled a goal back with his fourth goal in two games for Leipzig. Florian Wirtz then restored B04’s two-goal cushion with a superb goal before Lois Openda’s maiden Bundesliga goal made for an excellent ending.
In the end, Bayer Leverkusen remained level-headed and it’s a monstrous win against an RB Leipzig that will be challenging B04 for a place in next season’s Champions League come May, if they’re not in a title fight. It’s a game that involved two exciting, and young teams, but in the end it will be Xabi Alonso the happier of the two coaches. They face a trip to neighbouring Borussia Mönchengladbach next weekend.
Bayer Leverkusen Player Ratings
Lukas Hradecky, 6
Odilon Kossounou, 6
Jonathan Tah, 7 – A commanding performance from the German centre-back who at one point, looked like leaving the BayArena this summer. As reliable as ever defensively, and got on the scoresheet after finding himself free in the opposing penalty area.
Edmond Tapsoba, 6
Jeremie Frimpong, 9 – Man of the Match for Bayer Leverkusen this afternoon. 8 goals and 9 assists in 37 games under Xabi Alonso last season and already off the mark this season. Opened the scoring in the 24th minute and assisted Florian Wirtz for his first of the season just after the hour mark. Bayer Leverkusen have done exceptionally well to keep hold of the Dutchman despite interest.
Exequiel Palacios, 6
Granit Xhaka, 6
Alex Grimaldo, 7
Jonas Hofmann, 7
Florian Wirtz, 8 – Made it three on the afternoon for Bayer Leverkusen. A superb, looping finish, over Janis Blaswich. Missed much of the campaign last season but showcased his unique skillset after returning at the start of the calendar year. Wirtz will be key for Xabi Alonso this season and it’s crucial that he stays fit.
Victor Boniface, 7 – A strong performance for the Nigerian on his first Bundesliga start. Assisted Jeremie Frimpong for Bayer Leverkusen’s first of the afternoon a showcased several skills. Dropped deep on occasion, made runs in the channel and also did an excellent job of holding the ball up and bringing others into play. Has the potential to be an excellent signing for Die Werkself.
Others: Robert Andrich (6), Arthur (6), Nadiem Amiri (-), Adam Hlozek (-)
RB Leipzig Player Ratings
Janis Blaswich, 6
Benjamin Henrichs, 6
Mohamad Simakan, 7
Willi Orban, 6
David Raum, 6
Nicolas Seiwald, 4 – A Bundesliga debut to forget for the Austrian. Didn’t get up to match pace, looked lethargic and just couldn’t impose himself on the game. His last action was to be yellow carded after halting Florian Wirtz, who just ghosted past the central-midfielder.
Xaver Schlager, 6
Xavi Simons, 5
Dani Olmo, 7 – The Spaniard made it four goals in two games but he was unable to prevent a defeat for RB Leipzig. Always looked to progress the ball going forward and showcased his creativity in the final third. Early door, but Olmo can really flourish in this RB Leipzig squad following Christopher Nkunku’s departure.
Timo Werner, 5
Lois Openda, 7 – The Belgian will be disappointed not to have a brace on the afternoon. Pulled a goal back for RB Leipzig but had an excellent opportunity to equalise. Couldn’t get his feet sorted, and missed an open goal from 5-yards, but showcased his explosive pace throughout. Will be an asset for Leipzig.
Others: Kevin Kampl (5), Emil Forsberg (6), Castello Lukeba (5), Fabio Carvalho (-), Yussuf Poulsen (-)
GGFN | Daniel Pinder
