Bayer Leverkusen secured a hard-fought victory against Mainz on Friday, extending their unbeaten streak to 33 games across all competitions, a new record for a Bundesliga club. Granit Xhaka's early goal from 20 yards gave Leverkusen an early lead, but Mainz quickly responded with a diving header from Dominik Kohr to level the score.
Despite Leverkusen dominating possession, Mainz's goalkeeper, Robin Zentner, made several impressive saves in the first half to keep the visitors in the game. However, Zentner's mistake in the 68th minute allowed Robert Andrich's weak shot to slip through his hands, giving Leverkusen the lead once again.
Mainz's chances of a comeback were further diminished when Jessic Ngankam was sent off for a foul on Xhaka, leaving them with 10 men. Leverkusen's victory puts them 11 points clear at the top of the league with 61 points, while second-placed Bayern Munich, on 50 points, will be in action against RB Leipzig on Saturday.