Bayer Leverkusen defeated FC Cologne 2-0 at the Rhein Energie Stadion on Sunday to extend their lead to 10 points on the Bundesliga table ahead of champions Bayern Munich, reports Soccernet.ng.
Nigeria’s Nathan Tella was a second half substitute in place of goal scorer Jeremie Frimpong.
Leverkusen went into the game knowing that a victory against their next town neighbours would hand them a 10-point lead on top of the table following Bayern Munich’s 2-2 draw at Freiburg on Friday.
In Cologne to watch their game against Bundesliga leaders Leverkusen in another of the Rhine Derbies. Can Xavi Alonso’s men continue their unbeaten run?
Nathan Tella is on the bench for Leverkusen. Victor Boniface is still injured. @soccernet_ng pic.twitter.com/ANKQ9QXS2Y
— Lolade Adewuyi (@Jololade) March 3, 2024
Xabi Alonso’s team proceeded to play with aplomb from the start as they dominated play and possession and were patient in their build up.
The tide turned completely in their favour when Cologne winger Jan Thielmann was given a straight red on 14 minutes.
At the visitors piled on the pressure, Frimpong scored the opener on 37 minutes with a side tap in after Patrik Schick scuffed a cross into the box by Alex Grimaldo.
Grimaldo would be the benefit of an assist from substitute Amine Adli in the 73rd minute.
Tella’s contribution included a well-timed block in the Leverkusen box to deny the hosts a shot on goal.
Leverkusen now sit pretty on the table with 64 points after 24 matches with Bayern behind on 54.
Victor Boniface is still out injured.
