Borussia Dortmund Off to a Winning Start, Bayer Leverkusen Held to a Draw
Dortmund Wins 1-0 Thanks to Füllkrug's Goal
Stanisic's Header Opens Scoring for Leverkusen
Borussia Dortmund began their Bundesliga campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bayer 04 Leverkusen on Saturday afternoon. In a match marred by fouls and missed chances, it was ultimately Niclas Füllkrug's right-footed shot in the 75th minute that proved to be the difference.
Leverkusen had taken the lead earlier in the match through Josip Stanisic's header in the 35th minute. However, Dortmund's relentless pressure eventually paid off, with Füllkrug finding the back of the net to give his side the win.
The match was played in front of a sold-out crowd at the Signal Iduna Park, and the atmosphere was electric from the start. Both teams played with great intensity, and there were several heated exchanges between the players.
Dortmund had the better of the chances in the first half, but they were unable to find a way past Leverkusen's goalkeeper, Lukas Hradecky. The Czech Republic international made several fine saves, including one to deny Julian Brandt in the 20th minute.
Leverkusen took the lead against the run of play in the 35th minute. Stanisic rose highest to meet a cross from Kerem Demirbay and headed the ball past Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
Dortmund continued to press for an equalizer in the second half, and they were finally rewarded in the 75th minute. Füllkrug found himself in space inside the Leverkusen penalty area and fired a low shot past Hradecky.
Leverkusen pushed for a late equalizer, but Dortmund held on to secure the victory. The win gives Dortmund an early advantage in the Bundesliga race, while Leverkusen will be looking to bounce back when they host Bayern Munich next weekend.
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