Leverkusen extend Bundesliga lead with hard-earned win over 10-man Koln

Bayer Leverkusen strengthened their position at the top of the Bundesliga with a 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Koln on Saturday. The result extends Leverkusen’s remarkable unbeaten league run this season and gives them a 10-point lead over second-placed Bayern Munich.

Leverkusen went ahead just before half-time when Jeremie Frimpong slid in at the back post to convert a low cross. The goal came after Koln had been reduced to 10 men following Jan Thielmann’s red card for a foul on Granit Xhaka.

Koln battled bravely with a numerical disadvantage and went close to an equaliser early in the second half when Sargis Adamyan volleyed against the post. However, the impressive Alex Grimaldo doubled Leverkusen’s advantage midway through the second period with a deflected strike.

The win underlines Leverkusen’s title credentials as they aim for a first-ever Bundesliga crown. With 10 games left, their 10-point lead should be enough to seal glory and end their status as merely nearly men.

Meanwhile, Koln showed a spirit that should help in their relegation fight despite this defeat.

Paul

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