Leipzig returns to winning ways - Marco Rose: We showed great passion in defence

With goals from Xavi Simons and Oponda, RB Leipzig defeated Dortmund 2-0 in the 26th round of the 2024/25 Bundesliga. Marco Rose said his players tried their best to prevent the opponent from scoring and gave an outstanding performance in defense.

In the 17th minute, Raum's shot from the penalty area was saved by Dortmund goalkeeper Kerber, while Xavi Simmons received Sheshko's return pass and shot directly into the goal, helping Leipzig to open the scoring with a 1-0 lead.

In the 48th minute of the second half, Xavi Simons took a corner kick and Oponda volleyed the ball into the goal, helping Leipzig extend their lead to 2-0.

In the end, Leipzig defeated Dortmund 2-0 at the Red Bull Arena, successfully ending their losing streak.

Leipzig coach Marco Rose said, "We played very well in the first 50 minutes and deserved to be ahead, and we hit the post twice. But we were not active enough in the following time, allowing Dortmund to control the game."

"But we showed great passion in defense and the players tried their best to prevent the opponent from scoring. We are very happy with the final result, but there are still some areas that need to be reviewed and improved."

Xavi Simmons, who contributed a goal and an assist in this game, said, “The most important thing is to get three points. We haven’t won for a long time, so it is crucial to get a victory before the international match day. Life always brings challenges, and this season is not easy for me. This is the first time I have experienced long-term injury problems.”

"But my goal is to help the team get as high a ranking as possible. We still have big goals and a cup semi-final to play. I want to make history with the club."

Currently, Leipzig is ranked fifth in the standings with 42 points and still has to deal with many competitors in the fight for the Champions League qualification. In the next round of the league, Leipzig will travel to challenge Borussia Mönchengladbach.

Leipzig midfielder Baumgartner said, "It was a game of ups and downs, but we got a good ending in the end. We played well in the first half and scored the second goal soon after the halftime break. But then we played a little passively and retreated too deep, but thanks to Peter Gulacsi's magical save. The most important thing is that we won the game."

"The team tried their best in the game. If we can continue this performance in the next game against Monchengladbach, maybe we have come out of the trough. But the premise is that we must win that game."