October 05, (THEWILL) – Bayer Leverkusen’s title defence suffered another setback as they drew 2-2 with Holstein Kiel in the Bundesliga. The match, which coincided with the second anniversary of Xabi Alonso’s managerial appointment, saw Leverkusen squander a two-goal lead.
Victor Boniface opened the scoring for Leverkusen, followed quickly by Jonas Hofmann’s close-range finish. The hosts appeared to be in control, but a VAR decision ruled out what would have been Boniface’s second goal. Holstein Kiel capitalised on this reprieve, with Max Geschwill scoring from a corner just before half-time.
The second half brought further disappointment for Leverkusen. A penalty awarded to Kiel for a foul by Jeremie Frimpong was converted by Fiete Arp, levelling the score. Kiel nearly took the lead, but Lukas Hradecky made a crucial save from Benedikt Pichler’s header.
Despite late pressure from Leverkusen, including a missed opportunity by Martin Terrier, Kiel held firm to secure a valuable point. This result extends Kiel’s winless start to the season, making them the first Bundesliga debutant in 13 years to go six matches without a victory.
On the other hand, the draw continues Leverkusen’s disappointing start to their title defence. It marks their worst five-game opening to a Bundesliga campaign since Borussia Dortmund’s similar struggle in the 2012/2013 season, leaving Alonso with much to ponder as he looks to revive his team’s form on the anniversary of his appointment.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
