Bayer Leverkusen secured a 2-1 away win over 1. FC Köln in the Bundesliga derby on April 25, 2026, with Patrik Schick scoring both goals, including a controversial penalty.
The victory came despite Leverkusen’s recent struggles, having lost to Augsburg and Bayern Munich in their prior two matches, while Köln entered the game on a five-match unbeaten run in the league.
Referee Robert Hartmann awarded a penalty to Leverkusen in the 41st minute after Eric Martel appeared to handle the ball following a chip from Exequiel Palacios; VAR upheld the call, though replays suggested minimal contact.
Schick converted the spot-kick to grant Leverkusen a 1-0 halftime lead, a decision Köln players and staff protested as soft, given Martel’s arm was close to his body.
Leverkusen doubled their advantage early in the second half when Jeremie Frimpong’s cross from the left was finished clinically by Schick at the near post in the 52nd minute.
Köln pushed for a response, with Linton Maina and Dejan Ljubičić creating chances, but Leverkusen goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky made key saves to preserve the lead.
Joker Kevin Waldschmidt pulled one back for Köln in the 77th minute after a swift move initiated by Maina, setting up a tense finale.
Despite late pressure, Leverkusen held on, with Edmond Tapsoba and Piero Hincapié shielding the defense as Köln failed to find an equalizer.
The result left Köln with just five points clear of the relegation zone, though their superior goal difference over rivals like Borussia Mönchengladbach and Werder Bremen provided some comfort.
For Leverkusen, the win was vital in their chase for a top-four finish, as they trailed fourth place by four points and fifth-placed Hoffenheim by two, with Champions League qualification still within reach.
Pre-match betting odds favored Leverkusen despite Köln’s recent form, with Bet-at-home offering a 700% odds boost on the 1X2 market for new customers, up to a maximum bonus of €100.
The promotion required registration, a minimum deposit, and placement of a bet on the Köln-Leverkusen match, with terms and conditions applying to the offer.
Why did Leverkusen win despite Köln’s unbeaten streak?
Leverkusen won through clinical efficiency and a controversial penalty, overcoming Köln’s dominance in possession and chances by capitalizing on defensive errors and set-piece situations.
What does this result mean for both teams’ seasons?
Köln’s lead over the relegation zone remains narrow at five points, while Leverkusen keeps pressure on the Champions League spots, needing just two points to overtake Hoffenheim for fifth.
