Leverkusen kicks off 2025 with win over illness-hit Dortmund as Bundesliga returns

In Germany, Bayer Leverkusen faced Borussia Dortmund on January 10, 2025, in the first Bundesliga match of the new year. The game occurred just after the winter break, marking the resumption of the league. Leverkusen took full advantage of a weakened Dortmund side that was afflicted by a flu outbreak, leaving the home team without several key players including central defenders Emre Can and Nico Schlotterbeck, alongside other first-team players. From the beginning of the match, Leverkusen demonstrated their intent to capitalize on Dortmund's misfortunes, scoring just 25 seconds into the match through Nathan Tella. They maintained a swift offensive tempo, and Patrik Schick managed to secure two goals in the first half, making it clear that despite the absence of their injured striker Victor Boniface, Leverkusen’s attacking prowess remained intact. However, Dortmund put forth a valiant effort, with Jamie Gittens finding the net and Serhou Guirassy converting a late penalty, but it was not enough to change the outcome of the match. Leverkusen’s victory has important implications for the Bundesliga standings, bringing them within a single point of leaders Bayern Munich. The defending champions are now keeping close pressure on Bayern as they vie for the title, further invigorated by this winning streak. Coach Xabi Alonso expressed pride in the team’s discipline and resilience, especially under pressure and in challenging circumstances. Meanwhile, Dortmund endured a challenging day; coach Nuri Sahin had to manage a makeshift defense that struggled against rapid counterattacks from the opposition. Despite Dortmund's notable possession advantage at 70%, their inexperience in defense became their undoing. Several players had to step into unfamiliar positions due to the illness-induced absences in the squad. The defeat has pushed Dortmund further down the league table, putting them in a precarious position as they could descend to mid-table following the weekend’s fixtures. With just one win in their last five Bundesliga games, the team faces criticism and pressure to regroup quickly before the next matchup.