Leverkusen Rise Under Kasper Hjulmand with Key Victory Over Leipzig
Bayer Leverkusen secured a 3-1 away win against RB Leipzig, featuring a notable performance by 18-year-old debutant Montrell Culbreath who scored the late clincher after a build-up from the halfway line. The victory also included goals from Martin Terrier, who scored a looping header, and Patrik Schick, who converted a Bergkamp-esque move.
Leverkusen's progress comes amid a rebuild under manager Kasper Hjulmand, who has accumulated 28 Bundesliga points from 13 games since taking over in September, following the Erik ten Hag era. This strong run reflects in their third-place standing in the Bundesliga at year-end, with Bayern Munich leading nine points clear after 15 games.
The club also advances well in European and domestic cup competitions, including a notable Champions League win at Manchester City and a DFB-Pokal last-eight spot following a victory over Dortmund.
Despite challenges, including the absence of players Edmond Tapsoba, Ibrahim Maza and Eliesse Ben Seghir due to the Africa Cup of Nations, as well as Álex Grimaldo’s injury and Jarell Quansah's suspension, Leverkusen managed to maintain strong performances.
The closing goal ended on a contentious moment when team captain Robert Andrich appeared to handle the ball during the build-up, but after a delay, the goal was allowed to stand.
