Bayer Leverkusen have postponed RB Leipzig's return to the Champions League and significantly improved their own chances of a place in the top flight. The 4:1 (2:0) victory in the top game of the 32nd matchday in the Bundesliga saw the Werkself move past rivals VfB Stuttgart and TSG Hoffenheim in fourth place with 58 points thanks to their better goal difference.
In front of 30,210 spectators, the outstanding Patrik Schick (25th/76th/89th minute) and Nathan Tella (45th) scored the Bayer goals. Christoph Baumgartner (80) scored for Leipzig, who remain third in the table with 62 points and can book their place in the top flight next Saturday with a win at home to FC St. Pauli.
Although David Raum was back in the Leipzig squad, RB coach Ole Werner decided not to play the international. "We've always spoken in the last few days and made the final decision this morning," reported Werner. Leverkusen's regular goalkeeper Mark Flekken returned to the posts.