Bayer Leverkusen defeated Holstein Kiel 2-0 to extend their unbeaten Bundesliga away run to 28 games - a German top-flight record - and keep the pressure on league leaders Bayern Munich.

Holstein Kiel 0-2 Bayer Leverkusen
Goals: 0-1 Schick 9', 0-2 Adli 45' (assist: Wirtz)

Leverkusen, who drew 0-0 with Bayern last week despite dominating, were on top here from the outset, with their attacking prowess and tactical superiority evident throughout the 90 minutes.

Xabi Alonso, Bayer 04 Leverkusen's manager, watches on as his team secures a record-breaking away victory - IMAGO/Eibner-Pressefoto/Marcel von Fehrn

They started the match with intent, creating early chances from corner kicks. Their pressure paid off inside the opening 10 minutes when Patrik Schick capitalized on a defensive error by Kiel. The visitors continued to control the game, with Florian Wirtz pulling the strings in midfield, while Kiel struggled to maintain possession and create meaningful opportunities against Leverkusen's well-organized defence.

Patrik Schick attempts to score for Bayer 04 Leverkusen against Holstein Kiel's goalkeeper Timon Weiner - IMAGO/Fernando Soares

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As the first half drew to a close, Leverkusen doubled their lead. In the 45th minute, Wirtz showcased his vision with a perfectly timed pass to Adli. The Moroccan forward displayed great composure, chipping the ball over Kiel's goalkeeper Timon Weiner to give Leverkusen breathing space. The goal was a fitting reward for Leverkusen's fantastic first-half performance, reflected in their superior possession and chance creation.

Amine Adli chips the ball over Timon Weiner to double Leverkusen's lead just before half-time - IMAGO/CB

Kiel's second-half efforts fall short

Kiel emerged from the break with renewed determination, attempting to find a way back into the match. The home side showed more attacking intent and managed to see more of the ball in the opening stages of the second half. However, Leverkusen's defence remained resolute. Despite Kiel's improved display, they struggled to create clear-cut chances.

Florian Wirtz of Bayer 04 Leverkusen battles for possession with Magnus Knudsen of Holstein Kiel in a tightly contested midfield duel - Oliver Hardt

As the second half progressed, Leverkusen demonstrated their experience and tactical acumen by effectively managing the game. Xabi Alonso's side maintained possession well, limiting Kiel's opportunities to mount a comeback. The introduction of fresh legs through substitutions helped Leverkusen maintain their control, with Emiliano Buendía coming on for goalscorer Adli in the 70th minute. 

Player of the Match: Florian Wirtz

Wirtz was the standout performer in Leverkusen's victory. The young midfielder's vision and creativity were instrumental in Leverkusen's attacking play. Wirtz provided the assist for Adli's goal with a perfectly weighted pass, showcasing his ability to unlock defences. Throughout the match, he was at the heart of Leverkusen's best moves, consistently finding space and creating chances for his teammates. Wirtz's performance underlined his importance to Xabi Alonso's side and his growing influence in the Bundesliga.

Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Kiel 0.33 - Leverkusen 3.22
Fastest player: Dominik Javorček (Kiel), 34.25 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 0-2 by Amine Adli (Leverkusen), 36 percent
Most pressed player: Florian Wirtz (Leverkusen), 39 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Granit Xhaka (Leverkusen), +6.13

Fantasy Heroes: Alejandro Grimaldo (Leverkusen, 345 Points), Florian Wirtz (Leverkusen, 306 Points), Edmond Tapsoba (Leverkusen, 269 Points)

About the clubs

Bayer 04 Leverkusen

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Holstein Kiel

Holstein-Stadion