Hofmann brace secures Bayer Leverkusen's sixth straight win

Jonas Hofmann scored twice in a 2-0 away win at OFI Kreta, but manager Simon Rolfes criticised Bayer Leverkusen's lack of late dominance.

Bayer Leverkusen extended their winning run to six matches with a 2-0 away victory at OFI Kreta. Jonas Hofmann scored in the 35th and 37th minutes to decide the Europa League fixture early.

The Werkself top their group with nine points and a goal difference of 8:0. However, manager Simon Rolfes was not entirely satisfied after the final whistle. The 44-year-old criticised the team's lack of control in the final 35 minutes, despite the win being secure. Coach Carles Martínez, in contrast, praised his side's readiness and defensive solidity. The 42-year-old had started Hofmann after an injury to Martin Terrier and a late nomination under UEFA rules.

Bayer Leverkusen are carrying this strong form into the Bundesliga. The team sits fourth with 13 points after six matchdays, just one point behind leaders Bayern Munich. Their league record reads four wins, one draw and one loss. They have scored 16 goals and conceded nine for a goal difference of plus seven. Their current run includes five consecutive wins, with recent victories over SC Freiburg and RB Leipzig. The last five results across all competitions are a perfect five wins, with no draws or defeats. This includes the 2-1 home win against SC Freiburg on 18 October, where Patrik Schick scored the winner, and the 4-0 victory at Lech Poznan.

Focus on Hoffenheim

Full attention now turns to the Bundesliga. On Sunday 25 October, Leverkusen travel to face TSG Hoffenheim. Hoffenheim currently occupy 13th place in the table. For the Werkself, it is a chance to maintain their positive momentum and climb further up the standings. Top scorer Patrik Schick, who has six goals in six appearances this season, will be central to their plans.

The team under Carles Martínez travels to Sinsheim with great confidence. The win in Crete was not perfect, but it solidified their promising position in the Europa League. All information on the current squad and league table is available. The away match at TSG Hoffenheim kicks off on 25 October at 15:30.