Bundesliga 2024-25: Wirtz brace helps Leverkusen to 3-1 win against Monchengladbach

Bundesliga 2024-25: Wirtz brace helps Leverkusen to 3-1 win against Monchengladbach

Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz scored twice and set up another goal as he steered the German champion to a comfortable 3-1 victory over visiting Borussia Monchengladbach on Saturday to stay four points behind leader Bayern Munich.

Last season’s domestic double winner has now won 11 straight matches across all competitions ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League match at Atletico Madrid.

“It was tough to get this result. But we had good control and patience, and we played a mature game,” coach Xabi Alonso told a press conference.

“I am very satisfied with his (Wirtz’s) performance. He had a top, top impact on the game. His mentality is top. He always wants to play, to win and have fun on the pitch, and you can see that,” the coach added.

Leverkusen suffered an early setback when forward Martin Terrier had to be taken off with an ankle injury after nine minutes.

“It does not look good with Martin,” Alonso said. “It looks like a heel injury. We will wait for tomorrow to see, but it is a pity for Martin. Tomorrow, we will have a clearer situation.”

The hosts found it tough going against a disciplined Gladbach backline until Wirtz decided to take matters into his own hands.

The Germany international picked up a pass from Granit Xhaka well outside the box, then superbly shook off Ko Itakura before slotting home in the 32nd minute.

The 21-year-old doubled the lead with a well-taken 62nd-minute penalty to take his tally to nine league goals and turned provider 12 minutes later, setting up Patrik Schick for the Czech’s 12th league goal.

Gladbach grabbed a consolation in stoppage time through Tim Kleindienst.

Leverkusen is in second place with 41 points, with Bayern in top spot on 45 following its 3-2 win over VfL Wolfsburg.