1:2 against Bergamo: RB Leipzig loses without Sesko and Simons

RB Leipzig lost 2-1 (1-0) to Atalanta Bergamo on the debut of their new coach Ole Werner at the Red Bull Arena. Lois Openda put RB ahead after twelve minutes in front of 20,087 spectators at the official season opener. Gianluca Scamacca (85') equalized in the closing stages and Lorenzo Bernasconi (90') scored the winner.

Leipzig started with new signings Johan Bakayoko and Yan Diomande, who integrated well into the RB game with tremendous pace and some technical tricks. The established David Raum, Ridle Baku, Castello Lukeba and Willi Orban also harmonized very well in defence. The opening goal came from a corner kick, which Christoph Baumgartner passed into the back of the defense to Openda, who was free at the second post. The Belgian headed straight into the far corner. There was a similar opportunity after a free-kick in the area, but Openda's shot was blocked.

Werner makes changes

At the break, coach Werner made a complete change, with Ezechiel Banzuzi, Max Finkgräfe and Andrija Maksimovic also making their first Arena appearances. This line-up did not harmonize as well as the team in the first half. Antonio Nusa, Banzuzi and, to a lesser extent, Assan Ouedraogo still stood out. Leipzig's attacking play was now characterized by numerous misunderstandings, the running routes were still not right and the final pass rarely arrived. As a result, the chances were limited.

The Italians had a great opportunity through Giorgio Scalvini (48'), but Peter Gulacsi was on hand with a reflex save at the last second. Nusa (83) failed to beat Marco Sportiello in the Bergamo goal with a shot from the edge of the box.

Bergamo turned the game around late on

The equalizer came when Scamacca shot from distance and the ball flew into the corner. Bernasconi even scored the winner from a corner kick.

RB were missing Benjamin Sesko and Xavi Simons, the two players rumored to be looking to move to England. According to media reports, Newcastle United have submitted an initial official bid for Sesko. The English Premier League club is said to have offered 75 million euros plus five million euros in bonuses. Dutch international Simons is being discussed by Chelsea FC. Here, too, talks are said to be at an advanced stage.