Bayer Leverkusen claimed a key 4-3 away victory at FSV Mainz 05 on Saturday. The win on the fifth Bundesliga matchday moves Carles Martinez's side up to fourth place with ten points. The victory extends Leverkusen's strong early season form, leaving them unbeaten after five matchdays.
The Match
Leverkusen started brightly and took an early lead. Andrich scored in the fifth minute. Just four minutes later, Patrik Schick doubled the advantage with an assist from Garcia. Mainz fought back, however, and levelled before half-time through two goals from Caci (33', 42'). After the break, Leverkusen turned the game around again. Quansah made it 3-2 in the 55th minute, before Diaby, set up by Moreira, scored the 4-2 in the 65th. A late goal from Hollerbach in the 90th minute did not change the outcome.
Stats and Outlook
Leverkusen had slightly more possession at 53 percent and took 16 shots, with seven on target. The team proved efficient. Top scorer Patrik Schick netted his fifth goal of the season, making him the league's joint second-highest scorer. Leverkusen's record now stands at three wins and two draws. The next challenge comes on Thursday in the Europa League away to Lech Poznan. After that, the Bundesliga top-of-the-table clash against leaders SC Freiburg awaits on 18 October.
On Wednesday, sporting director Simon Rolfes confirmed the latest absence of Eliesse Ben Seghir. The 21-year-old missed the 4-3 win at Mainz on October 10. "It's not a serious injury. Still, it's annoying, of course," Rolfes said. Manager Carles Martinez expressed understanding for the player's frustration. "He desperately wants to play again, but he has to learn to manage his body," Martinez said. Ben Seghir has played only ten minutes this season. Leverkusen are fourth with ten points.
