Leverkusen's Suffocating Control: Freiburg Outclassed
Average Futmetrix Score: 40/100. At BayArena, this wasn't merely a Bundesliga fixture—it was a clinical demonstration of tactical superiority that left Freiburg gasping for air.
First Half: Possession as Punishment
Bayer Leverkusen seized the intensity from kickoff and never relinquished it. Commanding 69% possession, the Werkself transformed BayArena into an impenetrable fortress. E. Poku made them pay in the 22nd minute, finishing a precise assist from Aleix García for 1-0. The statistics were suffocating—19 shots to 10—yet Leverkusen's dominance felt even more comprehensive than the scoreline suggested.
The Breaking Point: Tapsoba's Strike and Red Chaos
After the interval, the stakes shifted violently. Edmond Tapsoba doubled the lead in the 52nd minute following Alex Grimaldo's assist—a defender scoring epitomized Leverkusen's total control. Then came the knockout blow: Philipp Lienhart of SC Freiburg received a straight red in the 74th minute. Freiburg's fragile balance shattered entirely. Facing a team that operated at 93% pass accuracy with ten men on the pitch, the visitors were mathematically eliminated.
The Verdict Written in Numbers
Loïc Badé was a colossus for Leverkusen—a 7.9 rating that spoke to defensive mastery. García orchestrated the midfield with six key passes, dictating rhythm. Freiburg? Merely 31% possession, 81% pass accuracy, three shots on target—a team that never threatened. The xG gulf (1.71 vs. 0.72) proved Leverkusen could have won by three without breaking a sweat.
Key Questions
How did the red card for Philipp Lienhart impact the match?
It dismantled Freiburg's defensive structure entirely. Ten men couldn't contain 69% possession; the match became a formality.
What made Edmond Tapsoba the standout performer?
His 52nd-minute goal and 8.5 rating epitomized Leverkusen's suffocating control from defence to attack.
Why is this match rated 40/100?
Our Futmetrix algorithm analyzed intensity, balance, and stakes. The final score of 40/100 places this match in the "Average" category.
