Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen thwarted again as Koji Miyoshi snatches late draw for Bochum
Bochum secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against defending Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen in Dieter Hecking's first match in charge as coach. Patrik Schick scored the opener for the visitors but Koji Miyoshi's first Bundesliga goal at the death salvaged a point for the hosts.
Bochum 1-1 Bayer Leverkusen
Goals: 0-1 Schick 18' (assist: Wirtz), 1-1 Miyoshi 89'
The Vonovia Ruhrstadion witnessed a thrilling encounter as Bochum, under new coach Dieter Hecking, secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against the reigning champions. The hosts went into the game with just one point from their opening nine matches - the joint-lowest total since the Bundesliga's inauguration. Leverkusen, meanwhile, arrived unbeaten in their last 21 Bundesliga away games, although having drawn four of their previous five, home and away, in the division.
Watch: Hrádecký: "This is completely unnecessary"
Schick breaks the deadlock
Leverkusen dominated possession in the early stages, and their pressure paid off in the 18th minute. Florian Wirtz showcased his vision with a perfectly weighted through ball, allowing Schick to break free. The Czech striker's effort struck Patrick Drewes, but the ball spun through the goalkeeper and nestled in the net via the inside of the post. It was Schick's first Bundesliga goal since last May, coincidentally also against Bochum.
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Bochum's resilience
Despite falling behind, Bochum showed signs of improvement under Hecking's guidance. Moritz Broschinski tested Lukáš Hrádecký with a powerful shot, while Gerrit Holtmann's pace caused problems for the Leverkusen defence. The hosts' determination was evident as they registered more shots than their opponents by the end of the match, although Leverkusen maintained control with their superior possession.
Late drama unfolds
As the match entered its final stages, Leverkusen appeared to be heading for victory. They thought they had doubled their lead in the 73rd minute when Jeremie Frimpong found the net, but the goal was ultimately disallowed for offside. Bochum's persistence paid off in dramatic fashion. In the 89th minute, Miyoshi found himself in the right place at the right time. He reacted quickest to squeeze the ball in from a tight angle, sending the Ruhrstadion into raptures. The late equaliser was a just reward for Bochum's improved second-half performance and Hecking's tactical acumen.
Player of the Match: Florian Wirtz
While Schick's goal was crucial, Wirtz's performance stood out throughout the match. The young midfielder's assist for Schick's goal showcased his vision and passing ability. He was at the heart of Leverkusen's attacking play, consistently creating chances and maintaining possession under pressure. His influence was reflected in the match statistics, where he led his team in fantasy points and was involved in numerous key moments.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Bochum 0.73 - Leverkusen 1.24
Fastest player: Gerrit Holtmann (Bochum), 34.54 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 1-1 by Koji Miyoshi (Bochum), 11.08 percent
Pass efficiency: Felix Passlack (Bochum), 5.48
Fantasy Heroes: Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen, 339 Points), Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen, 236 Points), Maximilian Wittek (Bochum 1848, 248 Points)
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