Bayer Leverkusen strike late to claim victory in thrilling encounter with Borussia Monchengladbach (Video)

Bayer Leverkusen started their Bundesliga title defence with an exciting triumph away to Borussia Monchengladbach on Friday.

Granit Xhaka broke the deadlock with a stunning rocket against his former club in the 12th minute, and Florian Wirtz doubled Leverkusen’s lead in the 39th. Nico Elvedi reduced Gladbach’s deficit just before the hour mark and the hosts felt they had snatched a point against the champions when Tim Kleindienst equlized five minutes from time.

However, Leverkusen were awarded a very late penalty. After more than 10 minutes of second-half stoppage time, Wirtz saw his spot-kick saved by Jonas Omlin, but he was quick enough to pounce on the rebound and claim victory for his team.