Bayer Leverkusen edged closer to their maiden Bundesliga title with a victory over 10-man Union Berlin.
A penalty converted by Florian Wirtz secured a ninth consecutive win for Xabi Alonso’s side, extending their lead over Bayern Munich to 16 points with six matches left.
Bayern’s loss to mid-table Heidenheim, despite initially leading 2-0, provided Leverkusen with a boost in their title pursuit.
The Leverkusen outfit can clinch the championship by defeating Werder Bremen at home in the upcoming weekend, marking an end to their long-awaited quest for the German title.
Alonso’s unbeaten squad is poised for inevitable glory, requiring just three points from the remaining 18 available to seal the title. They aim to achieve this feat in front of their home fans.
In Berlin, Leverkusen faced resistance from Union keeper Frederik Ronnow, but their breakthrough arrived in first-half stoppage time after Robin Gosens received a second yellow card. From the ensuing free-kick, Christopher Trimmel’s handball led to a penalty, expertly converted by Wirtz.
Maintaining their momentum, Leverkusen eyes a remarkable treble, having secured a spot in the German Cup final and preparing for a Europa League quarter-final clash against West Ham.