Tabakovic's Redemption: Gladbach Snatches a Point in the Final Breath

Merece la Pena Puntuación Futmetrix: 60/100. A high-intensity thriller at BayArena where VAR drama and late twists define the relegation battle for both sides.

The Goal That Never Was – VAR Writes an Early Script

In the 24th minute, Borussia Mönchengladbach believed they had seized control. Jens Castrop wheeled away in celebration—only for the VAR official to intervene. The goal was wiped out, a crushing blow for visitors already drowning with just 2 points from four matches. In a relegation battle, such moments cost souls.

Leverkusen Commands the Pitch; Grimaldo Orchestrates

Bayer Leverkusen dictated proceedings at the BayArena with 62% possession. Alejandro Grimaldo was the conductor—four key passes from the Spaniard explained his 8.2 rating and Man of the Match honour. By the 70th minute, Leverkusen's dominance bore fruit: M. Tillman finished clinically after a cross from P. Schick. The home side led, and victory seemed assured.

The 90th-Minute Earthquake: Herrmann and Tabakovic Deliver Drama

Then came the stakes-defining moment. Mönchengladbach, having mustered just one goal in four matches, threw caution to the wind. Substitute H. Tabakovic, introduced in the 80th minute, became the unlikely saviour. In the 90th minute, as hope had all but evaporated, Tabakovic rose to meet a cross from C. Herrmann and headed home the equaliser. A moment of upset-factor brilliance that splits the spoils: Gladbach salvages a lifeline, Leverkusen loses two precious points.

The Numbers Reveal a Battle of Abundance

Twenty-six combined shots, 16 on target—the BayArena became a shooting gallery. Moritz Nicolas in the Gladbach goal was the unsung hero with seven saves. Leverkusen's 13 attempts matched Gladbach's 13, underlining the balance of this shootout. With an xG of 1.46 to 0.81, Leverkusen should have won. Instead, the points are shared.