Substitute Emiliano Buendía scored deep into stoppage time to snatch a vital 1-0 victory for Bayer Leverkusen away at Heidenheim on Saturday, April 5th, keeping their slim Bundesliga title hopes alive. The late winner ensures Leverkusen remain six points behind leaders Bayern Munich with six matches remaining.
Leverkusen, seemingly still reeling from their shock German Cup semi-final exit to third-tier Arminia Bielefeld on Tuesday, produced a lackluster performance for much of the match. Heidenheim were the more threatening side in the first half, creating several clear chances but failing to convert, while Leverkusen lacked incision in attack.
Manager Xabi Alonso introduced substitutes Arthur and Patrik Schick midway through the second half in an attempt to inject fresh impetus. However, it was fellow substitute Buendía who ultimately made the difference. In the dying moments of the game, the Argentine curled a shot in off the post to secure a crucial three points.
The victory lifts second-placed Leverkusen to 62 points, maintaining the six-point gap to leaders Bayern Munich (68 points), who defeated St Pauli 3-2 earlier on Saturday. While the performance was far from convincing, the late win provides a much-needed boost for Alonso’s side as they continue their Bundesliga title defence and look to bounce back from their cup disappointment.
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