Bayer Leverkusen’s 2-2 Draw at Freiburg Confirms Bayern Munich as Bundesliga Champions

 Bayer Leverkusen fought back from a two-goal deficit to secure a 2-2 draw against SC Freiburg at the Europa-Park Stadion, a result that confirmed Bayern Munich as the 2024-25 Bundesliga champions. Despite the spirited comeback, Leverkusen’s title defense officially ended, as the point left them eight points behind Bayern with only two matches remaining and an insurmountable 30-goal difference. 

The draw extended Leverkusen’s remarkable unbeaten away league streak to 35 matches but marked the end of their hopes of retaining the Bundesliga crown, paving the way for Bayern to claim their 12th title in the last 13 seasons and for Harry Kane to secure his first major career trophy.

Leverkusen, aware that catching Bayern required a near-miraculous swing in points and goal difference, started the match with early possession but appeared lackluster compared to a vibrant Freiburg side chasing their first-ever UEFA Champions League qualification. Freiburg tested Leverkusen’s goalkeeper Matěj Kovář early, with Vincenzo Grifo’s long-range drive forcing a sharp save. 

The first half offered few clear chances, all favoring the hosts. Patrick Osterhage was denied by Kovář’s quick reaction on a breakaway, but Freiburg seized the lead just before halftime in spectacular fashion. Maximilian Eggestein, receiving the ball well outside the penalty area, unleashed a powerful, dipping strike into the top near corner, giving Freiburg a deserved 1-0 advantage at the break.

The situation deteriorated for Leverkusen early in the second half when Freiburg doubled their lead in the 48th minute. Ritsu Dōan’s lobbed cross was headed down by Johan Manzambi into the six-yard box, where Junior Adamu’s pressure forced Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié to inadvertently prod the ball into his own net. Freiburg’s resolute defending stifled Leverkusen’s attacks, but the visitors found a lifeline in the 82nd minute through Florian Wirtz. The attacking midfielder, previously ineffective, cut in from the left and fired a precise shot into the bottom-left corner, halving the deficit and reigniting Leverkusen’s hopes.

Xabi Alonso’s side, known for their resilience, refused to surrender. In the 93rd minute, Nathan Tella delivered a cross from the left, and Jonathan Tah, marking his 400th appearance for Leverkusen, rose to glance a header into the net, securing a dramatic equalizer. The goal underscored Leverkusen’s never-say-die spirit but was not enough to keep the title race alive, as Bayern’s lead remained unassailable. Freiburg, despite dropping two points from a 2-0 lead, retained their fourth-place position, keeping them in the hunt for a Champions League spot. 

The match highlighted Freiburg’s attacking prowess and defensive organization, while Leverkusen’s late fightback reflected their quality, even in a season where injuries to players like Mario Hermoso and Martin Terrier have hampered their campaign. With the Bundesliga title decided, Leverkusen now turn their focus to their upcoming Champions League round of 16 second leg against Bayern, aiming to salvage pride in a challenging season.