Bayer Leverkusen vs. Mainz: Leverkusen beats Mainz 4–3 after losing an early two-goal lead

Leverkusen scores twice in nine minutes

Bayer Leverkusen beat Mainz 4–3 on October 10 in a game that was tied at halftime after four first-half goals. Andrich put Leverkusen ahead in the fifth minute, volleying after Mwene’s headed clearance. Schick scored in the ninth minute to double the lead. Mainz then had the rest of the half to make up a two-goal deficit, and Caci accounted for both goals that brought the teams level.

Caci brings Mainz level

Caci’s first goal came from a rebound in the 33rd minute. He scored again in the 42nd from an Amiri pass, completing Mainz’s comeback before the break. The teams entered halftime tied 2–2, with Leverkusen’s two early goals answered by Caci’s two later in the half.

Leverkusen retakes the lead after halftime

Quansah put Leverkusen back in front in the 55th minute, heading his second attempt past Schwolow. A VAR review considered a possible handball by Schick, but the goal stood. That gave Leverkusen its first lead since Caci’s second goal had tied the game.

Diaby added Leverkusen’s fourth goal in the 65th minute, curling an effort into the top corner. Mainz scored once more in second-half stoppage time: Hollerbach converted in the 90th minute plus two after Maloney’s shot was deflected. That late goal cut the margin to one, and Leverkusen finished with a 4–3 win.