Super Eagles forward Tella scores as Bayer Leverkusen beat Borussia Dortmund in 5-goal thriller

Nathan Tella delivered a stunning performance to help Bayer Leverkusen secure a 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in a pulsating Bundesliga encounter on Friday night. 

Tella's opener set the tone for the match as Leverkusen climbed closer to league leaders Bayern Munich.

The game started with breathtaking intensity, and Tella wasted no time making his presence felt. Just 25 seconds after kickoff, Dortmund's defense faltered under pressure. 

A misplaced clearance found its way to Tella, who struck a sensational volley on the turn that flew past Gregor Kobel to give Leverkusen an early 1-0 lead. 

It was Tella's eighth goal for Bayer Leverkusen since he joined from Southampton and a testament to his growing reputation as a key player for Xabi Alonso's side.

Leverkusen doubled their advantage in the ninth minute. Piero Hincapié whipped in a precise cross from the left, and Patrik Schick slid in at the far post to convert, leaving the Dortmund defense reeling. 

However, the hosts found a way back into the game in the 15th minute through Jamie Gittens, who latched onto a deflected cross and delicately chipped over Lukas Hradecky from a tight angle to make it 2-1.

Despite Dortmund’s resurgence, Schick restored Leverkusen’s two-goal cushion in the 18th minute. 

The Czech striker capitalized on another low cross, once again finding space at the far post to slot home his second of the night and Leverkusen’s third.

Leverkusen maintained their dominance in the first half, with Tella showcasing his versatility and creativity in attack. 

Although Dortmund pushed for a comeback, the visitors defended resolutely. A late penalty in the 79th minute, converted by Serhou Guirassy after Edmond Tapsoba fouled Julien Duranville, gave Dortmund hope, but it wasn’t enough to deny Leverkusen their ninth consecutive league win.

Tella’s early goal proved crucial in unsettling Dortmund, and his all-round display underlined his importance to Leverkusen’s title challenge. 

Substituted in the 74th minute, the Nigerian international received a warm reception from the traveling fans, who recognized his contribution to another crucial victory.

With this win, Bayer Leverkusen moved within a point of Bayern Munich, while Dortmund’s first home league defeat of the season left them facing tough questions about their defensive vulnerabilities.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: bayer04.de

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