Xavi's Show in Leipzig: RB Ends Bremen's Winning Streak

Leipzig's coach Marco Rose saw his squad’s injury concerns ease during the winter break, with key players like Raum and Xavi returning. However, Schlager was sidelined after picking up a left leg injury in a secret friendly against Czech third-tier side Banik Most (10-0).

Compared to their last game of the previous year, a 5-1 defeat in Munich, Rose moved away from the rigid 3-5-2 formation, opting for a fluid system that alternated between a 4-4-2 with a double pivot and a 3-4-3. Klostermann, Raum, Kampl, and Xavi started in place of Geertruida, Henrichs (Achilles tendon rupture), Schlager, and Baumgartner. New signing Baku began on the bench.

Werder faced uncertainty about Ducksch's availability following thyroid surgery, but he was cleared to play. As a result, Bremen fielded the same starting XI for the third consecutive match, following their 4-1 win against Union Berlin.

The game started at a high pace: Bremen impressed with aggressive pressing and a risky approach, attacking high up the pitch with several players. Leipzig struggled to build up play but managed to break free occasionally, with Raum recording the first notable attempt (9’). On the other end, Schmid caused a stir (11’).

Xavi Makes the Difference

After an intense start, the tempo slightly slowed but the game remained entertaining and soon delivered goals. Following Openda's acrobatic effort that missed the mark (20’), Bremen were caught off guard by a throw-in. Raum’s delivery was headed on by Openda into Xavi’s path, who slotted a low shot into the bottom-left corner for 1-0 (23’).

However, the lead lasted only two minutes as Werder responded brilliantly. Ducksch, Weiser, and Grüll combined in a swift move, with Grüll’s clever backheel setting up Weiser for the equalizer (26’).

Xavi Strikes Again

The Dutchman had more magic up his sleeve. Picking up the ball in midfield, Xavi dashed past multiple defenders before scoring with a precise shot from 15 meters, restoring Leipzig’s lead at 2-1 (35’).

Sesko’s Stunning Goal After the Break

The score remained unchanged at halftime, despite Klostermann and Xavi coming close with a double chance (43’). Bremen made a substitution, bringing on Veljkovic for Friedl, who had received his fifth yellow card.

Just two minutes into the second half, Leipzig struck again. Raum forced Weiser into a turnover, and Sesko capitalized, blasting a powerful shot from 25 meters into the top-right corner (47’).

This effectively sealed the game. While Bremen fought valiantly and continued to play with courage, their energy waned. They struggled to create cohesive attacks, while Leipzig managed the game expertly. New signing Baku also made his debut, as Leipzig saw out a comfortable victory.