Bayer Leverkusen climbs to fourth with potent attack and solid defence

Bayer Leverkusen has climbed to fourth in the Bundesliga, powered by Patrik Schick's scoring record and a defence that has conceded only three goals from open play.

Bayer Leverkusen has surged to fourth place in the Bundesliga thanks to a potent attack and a solid defence. After six matchdays, Carles Martinez's team has collected 13 points, sitting just one point behind leaders Bayern Munich.

The team's goalscoring prowess is the key driver. With 16 goals, Leverkusen has the second-best attack in the league behind Bayern. Patrik Schick is the standout performer, scoring in all six Bundesliga matches to lead the club's scoring chart with six goals, setting a new club record. Another key figure in the attack is 20-year-old Algerian midfielder Ibrahim Maza, who has contributed two goals and two assists. The duo combined effectively in the 2-1 win over SC Freiburg, with Schick assisting Maza before Maza returned the favour for Schick's winner.

Leverkusen creates constant pressure, ranking second in the league with 114 shots. The flanks are particularly effective, with the team delivering a league-high 84 crosses, resulting in five goals. New left-back signing Miguel Gutierrez, from SSC Napoli, has provided three assists, including one for a Schick header against RB Leipzig.

Defence provides a solid base

While the goals flow at one end, the defence remains tight at the other. Mark Flekken's goal has been kept clean in four of the six league games, with only three of the nine total concessions coming from open play. This stability is built on a consistent centre-back pairing of Edmond Tapsoba and new signing Facundo Medina. The Argentine has immediately become a starter and also registered three assists. The defensive solidity was also evident in the Europa League and DFB-Pokal, where clean sheets were kept.

The team's mental strength has improved markedly after a shaky season opener. The only stumble was a 2-3 defeat to Elversberg. Since then, Leverkusen has won six of seven matches and is on a five-game winning streak. This strong recent form is highlighted by their scoring in the decisive final stages, having netted five times in the last 15 minutes of their last five matches. Midfielder Ibrahim Maza confirmed this growing cohesion after the Freiburg match. "We have grown together better, we understand each other superbly on the pitch," the 20-year-old said. Goalkeeper Mark Flekken had previously criticised a lack of energy and sharpness following the Elversberg loss.

With this positive momentum, the fourth-placed side looks ahead to its next away fixture. On 25 October 2026, Bayer Leverkusen travels to face 1899 Hoffenheim, who currently sit 14th. The team aims to extend its winning run and maintain pressure on the leading pack at the top of the standings.