Simons Stars as RB Leipzig Overcome Dortmund to Revive Champions League Aspirations

RB Leipzig narrowly avoided enduring their first-ever stretch of five Bundesliga matches without a win, thanks to a goal and an assist from Xavi Simons, securing a 2-0 triumph against Borussia Dortmund at the Red Bull Arena. This defeat marks the seventh league loss for Niko Kovac’s side in 2025.

With both teams experiencing their lowest points tallies after 25 matches since the 2014/15 season, Dortmund had some confidence from their midweek UEFA Champions League victory. Serhou Guirassy made an early attempt, testing Peter Gulacsi with a low shot.

However, Leipzig quickly responded, hitting the crossbar through Lois Openda before breaking the deadlock in the 18th minute.

David Raum’s fierce effort was parried into the path of Benjamin Sesko, who fortuitously flicked the ball back to Xavi Simons, allowing him to strike powerfully from the centre of the area.

The hosts continued their momentum after taking the lead, with Marcel Sabitzer sustaining an injury while blocking a shot from Christoph Baumgartner, and Ridle Baku rattling the crossbar with his shot.

While Dortmund would have been pleased to head into half-time trailing by just one goal, they almost levelled the score when Karim Adeyemi’s low shot was saved by Gulacsi during injury time.

Despite any motivational words from Kovac at the break, Leipzig doubled their lead just minutes into the second half.

Xavi’s corner curled over everyone to reach Openda, who brilliantly volleyed the ball back across the goal and into the far corner.

This goal finally shook the visitors from their lethargy, with Maximilian Beier showcasing their urgency by striking the woodwork twice in quick succession. Adeyemi also came close, forcing Gulacsi to tip a powerful shot onto the bar.

Dortmund’s attempts to fight back were commendable, but they were guilty of missed opportunities, as a few chances went awry due to poor finishing.

In the end, despite accumulating more than 2 xG in the second half, the visitors were unable to find the net, resulting in their fourth defeat in six league games under Kovac.

Though this win does not propel Leipzig into the top four, it is their second victory in 10 league fixtures this year, bringing them level on points with Eintracht Frankfurt for the time being.