Nathan Tella wasted no time in making an explosive start to the new year, scoring the fastest goal for Bayer Leverkusen since Karim Bellarabi’s 2014 record.
In just 25 seconds, the Super Eagles star gave his side the lead in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund, footballrover reports.
This early strike set the ball rolling for a dramatic match that saw Leverkusen deal Dortmund their first home league defeat of the season.
Nathan Tella breaks Leverkusen’s speed record
The match was delayed for 15 minutes due to traffic congestion, and once the action started, it was all Leverkusen.
A shaky Dortmund defence failed to cope with the pressure, and the Nigerian forward took full advantage, firing a brilliant volley past goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
The goal marked the fastest Bayer Leverkusen goal in nearly a decade, a feat last achieved by Bellarabi.
Leverkusen continued their dominance with two more goals in the opening 18 minutes. Patrik Schick, in fine form, added to his tally with a precise finish at the back post.
Despite a spirited response from Dortmund, with Jamie Gittens scoring a tidy goal, Leverkusen remained in control.
Bayer Leverkusen’s solid defence and key saves secure victory
Leverkusen’s defence held strong as Dortmund’s late pressure failed to find an equaliser.
Finnish goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky made crucial saves, including denying Serhou Guirassy’s deflected shot and Karim Adeyemi’s strike.
Even when Edmond Tapsoba conceded a penalty in the final minutes, Leverkusen held firm to secure the win.
With this result, Bayer Leverkusen moved within a point of Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich and became the first team this season to win six straight games.
Nathan Tella’s fastest Bayer Leverkusen goal set the stage for another memorable performance from Xabi Alonso’s men.
Leave a comment