Late goals from super-sub Emil Forsberg and Mohamed Simakan saw RB Leipzig extend their winning run in all competitions to four games by beating Hoffenheim 3-1, handing the visitors their 10th loss in 13 head-to-head encounters.
As Leipzig aimed to keep pace with the Bundesliga title contenders, visiting goalkeeper Oliver Baumann found himself tested on multiple occasions, making important saves to deny Xavi Simons’ strike and Yussuf Poulsen’s attempt to score for the fourth consecutive game in the 30th minute.
However, Leipzig’s pressure paid off just four minutes later. Lukas Klostermann, coming through as the unexpected hero, was perfectly positioned to tap home a goal following a series of ricochets from an initial set-piece. This deserved lead was a result of Leipzig’s dominance in the first half, where they should have been out of sight.
But as the halftime break approached, Hoffenheim managed to equalize against the run of play. Ozan Kabak rose highest to nod home Robert Skov’s free-kick, leveling the score and sending the Kraichgauer into halftime with renewed hope.
The trend of Leipzig’s dominance continued into the second half, with the hosts constantly frustrating their opponents. This time, it was the woodwork that denied Leipzig when Simons struck from range, only to see his effort agonizingly crash against the post, much to the relief of the helpless Baumann.
Given that Hoffenheim traveled to the Red Bull Arena to face a side that has not lost at home in their last five games, a draw would have been considered a good result for Pellegrino Matarazzo’s side. However, Emil Forsberg had other plans. The Swedish midfielder became the hero of the hour by firing home Loïs Openda’s pass inside the area, restoring Leipzig’s lead. And just three minutes later, Simakan took advantage of a goalmouth scramble to add a third, effectively putting the game out of Hoffenheim’s reach.
With this victory, Marco Rose’s men climbed into the top three, now just four points behind league leaders Bayer Leverkusen, although they have played one more game. On the other hand, Hoffenheim’s top-six position is at risk as they continue to struggle, having only managed one win in their last seven matches in all competitions.