Relentless Leverkusen, another Xavi masterpiece, and blazing Bochum are among the major talking points as Bundesliga examines the most dramatic moments from a magnificent Matchday 22.
The B04 show rolls on
Bayer Leverkusen’s juggernaut continues to roll on! Xabi Alonso’s men marched into Heidenheim’s Voith-Arena unbeaten in eight and emerged with a comfortable victory, extending their unbeaten streak to an astonishing 32 games and setting new club records in the process.
Jeremie Frimpong, returning after his heroics against Bayern Munich, opened the scoring for the visitors, and while the hosts threatened at times, Leverkusen’s dominance never seemed in doubt. Amine Adli added a second before Tim Kleindienst’s late strike provided mere consolation for Heidenheim.
This win sees Leverkusen set new club records for both most goals scored (57) and fewest conceded (15) after 22 games. “We controlled the game well,” Alonso stated, his satisfaction evident. “We’re happy, but we must keep going.”
Their next test? A Friday night clash against a resurgent Mainz. Mainz did Bayern Munich a favor last season by derailing Borussia Dortmund’s title charge, and the Bavarians might be hoping for a repeat performance against Leverkusen. But with Leverkusen currently the hottest team in Europe, even a repeat performance by Mainz seems highly unlikely.
Füllkrug’s on fire, defences terrified
Despite failing to secure a win against Wolfsburg, Borussia Dortmund can find solace in the continued scoring prowess of Niclas Füllkrug. The German striker’s 11th goal of the season, albeit not the most aesthetically pleasing, adds another chapter to his impressive form.
Füllkrug’s tap-in in the 8th minute marked his fifth time giving Dortmund the lead this season, further highlighting his direct impact on the team’s attacking play. He’s now been involved in the last seven goals scored by the Black and Yellows, accumulating a total of 18 goal contributions in the Bundesliga.
This impressive form has undoubtedly caught the attention of PSV Eindhoven, Dortmund’s upcoming opponent in the Champions League Round of 16 first leg. While the draw against Wolfsburg might have been frustrating, Füllkrug’s consistency provides a beacon of hope for BVB as they prepare for a crucial European encounter.
Xavi and Openda the brightest of lights
The Bundesliga witnessed a return to form for Leipzig and a moment of pure magic from Xavi Simons against Borussia Mönchengladbach. His thunderous 14th-minute volley, expertly set up by Dani Olmo and Yussuf Poulsen, sent the Red Bull Arena crowd into a frenzy. This January’s Goal of the Month winner is a strong contender for February’s award too.
After a spell of underwhelming performances, Leipzig were back to their slick selves, dominating their struggling opponents. Loïs Openda continued his hot streak with a delightful lobbed finish, taking his tally to 16 goals in 2023/24 and extending his scoring streak to five Bundesliga games.
Xavi and Openda have been revelations for both Leipzig and the league, boasting a combined 33 goal involvements. While Marco Rose’s side may have stumbled recently, their dynamic duo guarantees they’re always a threat.
Serhou & Stuttgart look unstoppable
Stuttgart’s Champions League dreams received a major boost with Serhou Guirassy’s return and a dramatic 1-2 victory over Darmstadt.
The Guinea international, back after injury and international duty, needed just 14 minutes to head home his 18th Bundesliga goal in only 16 appearances – surpassing even Bayern’s Harry Kane.
Guirassy’s tally rekindled memories of club legend Mario Gomez’s record-breaking 24 goals, and with that number within reach, the sky seems the limit for Stuttgart.
Their win, achieved despite playing with 10 men, marked their 15th of the season and cemented their third-place position.
Loanee Mahmoud Dahoud also got on the scoresheet, further bolstering Stuttgart’s attacking options.
Having recovered from a recent dip in form, Sebastian Hoeneß’s side now boast a four-game winning streak and are looking like serious contenders for Champions League qualification.
Bochum mean business
Bochum’s meteoric rise continues, with the newly promoted side solidifying their top-flight status and becoming a thorn in the side of the league’s giants.
Last season, their 1-1 draw with Dortmund derailed their rivals’ title charge. Now, they’ve dealt another blow, inflicting an eight-point deficit on Bayern Munich after a thrilling 3-2 victory.
Bochum’s grit and determination were on full display. After falling behind to Musiala’s early goal, they battled back with Asano’s clinical strike, Antwi-Adjei’s creative spark, and Bernardo’s defensive leadership. Goalkeeper Riemann was a rock, maintaining the most challenges won in the league.
This performance epitomizes Bochum’s fighting spirit. They’re no longer just plucky underdogs; they’re giant killers with their sights set on even bigger upsets. Even Leverkusen, the current leaders, have a visit to the Vonovia Ruhrstadion looming, potentially adding another twist to the already thrilling title race.