Bayer Leverkusen Tops Borussia Dortmund 3-2

Bayer Leverkusen began the Bundesliga 2025 season with a thrilling 3-2 victory over a depleted Borussia Dortmund, who faced significant challenges due to illness affecting six players. Nathan Tella scored just 25 seconds into the match, setting a frantic pace that saw Patrik Schick net two goals early on, putting Leverkusen ahead 3-1 by the 19th minute. Dortmund responded with a goal from Jamie Gittens and later converted a penalty through Serhou Guirassy, but could not equalize despite dominating possession. Leverkusen's defense, led by Edmond Tapsoba, held firm against Dortmund's late pressure. This win keeps Leverkusen just one point behind Bayern Munich in the league standings, while Dortmund risks dropping to tenth place depending on weekend results. The match highlighted both teams' varying states, with Leverkusen appearing strong despite missing key players like Victor Boniface.