Bayer Leverkusen put on a masterclass in their 5-0 demolition of RB Salzburg in the Champions League, bouncing back emphatically from their disappointing defeat against Liverpool in the previous game week.
Led by the sensational Florian Wirtz, Xabi Alonso’s side showcased a near-perfect performance, leaving their Austrian opponents with no answers.
This match highlighted Leverkusen’s attacking prowess and tactical precision while exposing Salzburg’s lack of cohesion and composure on the European stage.
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From the first whistle, Florian Wirtz was in imperious form. The young German midfielder opened the scoring with a confident penalty in the 8th minute, sending Salzburg goalkeeper Alexander Schlager the wrong way. His creativity, technical ability, and vision were on full display throughout the match, as he orchestrated Leverkusen’s attacks with ease.
Wirtz wasn’t content with just the opening goal. In the 30th minute, he combined brilliantly with Alejandro Grimaldo and Robert Andrich to score Leverkusen’s third, effortlessly tucking the ball past Schlager. He later added an assist, setting up Aleix Garcia’s stunning strike in the 72nd minute. Wirtz’s dazzling performance solidified his reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
One of the highlights of the evening came in the 11th minute when Alejandro Grimaldo converted a sublime free-kick. After Wirtz was fouled just outside the box, Grimaldo stepped up and clipped the ball over the wall and into the net, leaving Schlager rooted to the spot. It was a moment of pure class that underlined Leverkusen’s technical superiority.
Grimaldo also contributed significantly in open play, combining with Wirtz and Frimpong to carve through Salzburg’s defense time and time again. His attacking runs and precise passing kept Salzburg’s backline under constant pressure.
Patrick Schick added Leverkusen’s fourth goal in the 61st minute, finishing off a Jeremie Frimpong cross with a clinical poked finish.
The Czech forward’s movement and link-up play caused problems for Salzburg throughout the match, and his goal capped an excellent display. Schick’s presence up front provided a focal point for Leverkusen’s dynamic attack, making him a constant threat.
Leverkusen’s dominance was cemented in the 72nd minute when Aleix Garcia drilled a powerful strike past Schlager to make it 5-0. The midfielder, who had come on as a substitute, wasted no time making an impact. Set up by Wirtz, Garcia’s goal was the final nail in Salzburg’s coffin, as the Austrian side’s flat performance left them struggling to keep pace.
Salzburg’s Struggles Continue
For RB Salzburg, this match was another disappointing chapter in a difficult Champions League campaign. Despite some moments of individual brilliance from Alexander Schlager and Amar Dedic, the team lacked cohesion and struggled to compete with Leverkusen’s intensity. Salzburg managed just 0.23 xG compared to Leverkusen’s 3.98, highlighting their inability to create meaningful chances.
Coach Pep Lijnders made three halftime substitutions in an attempt to turn the tide, but the changes failed to inspire a comeback. Salzburg’s midfield was overrun, and their defense was repeatedly exposed by Leverkusen’s quick transitions and precise passing.
Under Xabi Alonso, Bayer Leverkusen has developed into one of the most exciting teams in Europe. This performance was a testament to Alonso’s tactical acumen and his ability to get the best out of his players. The team’s fluid movement, quick passing, and high pressing left Salzburg chasing shadows.
The combination of Grimaldo and Frimpong on the flanks provided width and attacking options, while Wirtz’s creativity in the center ensured a steady supply of chances. Alonso’s decision to rest key players in the second half, with the likes of Wirtz and Schick making way for substitutes, demonstrated his smart squad management ahead of their domestic commitments.
Key Takeaways
- Florian Wirtz’s Brilliance: Wirtz was the standout player, contributing two goals and an assist while dictating the tempo of the game.
- Leverkusen’s Depth: Despite injuries to key players, Leverkusen’s squad depth shone through, with substitutes like Aleix Garcia making significant contributions.
- Salzburg’s Struggles: Salzburg’s lack of intensity and defensive frailties were evident, leaving them on the brink of elimination from the competition.
- Xabi Alonso’s Influence: Alonso’s tactical flexibility and ability to maximize his team’s strengths were key to Leverkusen’s dominant performance.
What’s Next?
For Bayer Leverkusen, this victory puts them in a strong position in their Champions League group. With three wins from five games, Alonso’s side will be confident heading into their final group-stage match. Their focus will now shift to maintaining their momentum in domestic competitions.
Salzburg, on the other hand, face an uphill battle to stay in the competition. With just one win in their group-stage campaign, they’ll need a significant improvement in both performance and results if they hope to progress.
