By Olaitan Ibrahim
Nigerian forward Victor Boniface was on target as Bayer Leverkusen continued their impressive Bundesliga run with a commanding 3-1 victory over Hoffenheim at home on Sunday.
Leverkusen wasted no time asserting their dominance, opening the scoring in the 15th minute. Boniface, displaying his trademark composure, latched onto a precise pass from Alejandro Grimaldo and coolly slotted the ball into the right side of the net.
Just two minutes later, Jeremie Frimpong doubled the lead with a clinical finish after a well-worked move involving Aleix Garcia.
The hosts thought they had a chance to make it three from the penalty spot when David Jurasek was penalised for a foul in the 22nd minute. However, after a VAR review, referee Robin Braun overturned his decision, much to the frustration of the Leverkusen players.
Leverkusen remained relentless and extended their advantage in the 51st minute. Emiliano Buendía’s powerful effort forced a save from Hoffenheim’s goalkeeper, but Patrik Schick was perfectly positioned to smash home the rebound, making it 3-0.
The game took a turn in the 61st minute when Grimaldo received his second yellow card, reducing Leverkusen to 10 men.
Hoffenheim capitalised almost immediately, with Gift Orban finding the net a minute later after a goalmouth scramble.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Leverkusen held firm. Goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky produced a stunning stop in added time to deny Alexander Prass from close range, ensuring the three points remained secure.