Leverkusen draw blank at Wolfsburg | OneFootball

Bayer Leverkusen draw blank against well-drilled Wolfsburg

It was honours even at the Volkswagen Arena after a tense Matchday 21 encounter failed to produce a goal.

Wolfsburg 0-0 Bayer Leverkusen

With both oe these sides boasting respective lengthy goalscoring runs - the hosts at home and Bayer 04 away - this was a game that promised much prior to kick off.

Defending champions Leverkusen arrived at the Volkswagen Arena unbeaten in their last 26 away games, with Xabi Alonso looking to equal Udo Lattek's record of 27 consecutive games on the road without defeat. The Spanish tactician made eight changes to his starting line-up following the Werkself's extra-time midweek DFB Cup victory against Cologne, with key players like Florian Wirtz and Patrik Schick starting on the bench.

Jonas Wind (l.) of Wolfsburg attempts a shot while being closely marked by Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah. (ODD ANDERSEN)

Wolfsburg start strong but denied early lead

It was the hosts who started the match with more intent, however, with Ralph Hasenhüttl's side creating early chances. Wolfsburg thought they had taken the lead in the 7th minute when Konstantinos Koulierakis headed home from a free-kick, but the goal was disallowed for offside after a VAR review.

The Wolves continued to press, with Patrick Wimmer causing problems for the Leverkusen defence. The visitors struggled to find their rhythm, possibly due to the numerous changes in their lineup. Indeed, Bayer 04's best chance of the half came in the 22nd minute when Nordi Mukiele missed a golden opportunity from close range following a corner. Wolfsburg's Maximilian Arnold then forced a save from Lukáš Hrádecký with a header in the 33rd minute.

Leverkusen goalkeeper Lukáš Hrádecký makes a crucial save to keep his team in the game (ODD ANDERSEN)

Leverkusen improve but defences hold firm

The second half saw a more balanced contest, with Leverkusen growing into the game. Alonso introduced Jeremie Frimpong and Wirtz on the hour mark to inject more creativity into their attack. The changes had an impact, but Wolfsburg's defence, led by the impressive Denis Vavro, stood firm.

The hosts came close to breaking the deadlock in the 74th minute when Kilian Fischer struck the crossbar with a powerful effort. As the match entered its final stages, both teams pushed for a winner, but neither could find the crucial breakthrough. Wirtz had a late chance in stoppage time, but his effort went narrowly wide, ensuring the match ended in a goalless draw.

Player of the Match: Denis Vavro

Vavro put in a stellar performance at the heart of Wolfsburg's defence, playing a crucial role in securing a clean sheet against the defending champions. The Slovak defender was a commanding presence throughout the match, making several crucial interventions and clearances. His positioning and reading of the game were exceptional, particularly in the second half when Leverkusen increased the pressure. Vavro's ability to neutralise Leverkusen's attacking threats, including the dangerous Wirtz after his introduction, was key to Wolfsburg earning a valuable point.

Bundesliga Match FactsxGoals: Wolfsburg 0.78 - Leverkusen 1.36Fastest player: Tiago Tomás (WOB), 33.93 km/hMost pressed player: Mohamed Amoura (WOB), 16 times under pressurePass efficiency: Joakim Mæhle (WOB), +2.79

Fantasy Heroes: Nordi Mukiele (Bayer 04 Leverkusen, 286 Points), Lukáš Hrádecký (Bayer 04 Leverkusen, 274 Points), Kilian Fischer (VfL Wolfsburg, 227 Points)

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