Nathan Tella played a vital role for Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday, providing a crucial assist in their 2-1 away victory over rivals FC Köln.

The breakthrough moment came in the 52nd minute when Tella set up Patrik Schick for what would become the match-winning goal, Footballrover reports.

Nathan Tella assist inspires Bayer Leverkusen derby win

This latest contribution brings the 26-year-old winger’s tally to three assists in 16 Bundesliga appearances for the Black and Reds this season.

After an impactful shift, Tella was substituted for Eliesse Ben Seghir in the 72nd minute. The victory ensures Leverkusen remains firmly in fifth place, sitting on 55 points after 31 matches.

Patrik Schick’s clinical finishing proved the difference as Bayer Leverkusen secured a 2-1 derby victory over Cologne, moving Die Werkself into the Bundesliga’s top five.

Despite the win, Leverkusen struggled early, looking fatigued following their midweek cup exit.

Cologne dominated the opening exchanges but were thwarted by goalkeeper Janis Blaswich and the woodwork, with Said El Mala missing a glaring opportunity from an acute angle.

Leverkusen punished this wastefulness just before halftime. Eric Martel was penalised for a handball in the box, allowing Schick to convert the resulting penalty.

Tella impact helps Leverkusen maintain top-five push

Shortly after the restart, Schick doubled the lead by stabbing home Nathan Tella’s cross at the far post, marking his sixth goal in five league matches.

Cologne refused to fold and pulled one back through substitute Luca Waldschmidt after Leverkusen failed to clear a dangerous run by El Mala.

The goal electrified the home crowd, and Cologne pushed for a late equaliser, but a heroic goal-line clearance from Edmond Tapsoba ensured Leverkusen took all three points.

While it was a frustrating first defeat for manager René Wagner, Cologne remains five points clear of the relegation zone, whereas Leverkusen’s fifth unbeaten trip to the RheinEnergieStadion seals their European ambitions.

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Last Updated on April 25, 2026 8:51 pm by footballrover