Hoffenheim 3-0 Bayer Leverkusen: Nathan Tella features as Victor Boniface remains on bench

Nathan Tella made his third Bundesliga appearance of the campaign for Bayer Leverkusen, but could not prevent a 3-0 defeat by Hoffenheim on Sunday.

The Nigeria international started for Leverkusen but was unable to help his side recover after a goalless opening period. His compatriot Victor Boniface did not take part, remaining an unused substitute throughout the 90 minutes.

Hoffenheim had the first clear opportunity when Fisnik Asllani was denied by Leverkusen goalkeeper Mark Flekken. Patrik Schick then came close for the visitors, but sent his effort over the crossbar.

The match remained tightly contested until the 76th minute, when Hoffenheim were awarded a penalty. Edmond Tapsoba brought down Asllani inside the area, giving Andrej Kramaric the chance to put the hosts ahead.

Kramaric made no mistake from the spot, striking the penalty down the middle to beat Flekken and give Hoffenheim the lead.

Leverkusen responded by searching for an equaliser, with Robert Andrich testing Hoffenheim goalkeeper Oliver Baumann. Baumann made the save, keeping his side in front as the visitors struggled to find a way back into the contest.

Hoffenheim then doubled their advantage in the 89th minute. Alexander Prass exchanged passes with Kramaric before sending an 18-yard shot beyond Flekken.

Prass was immediately shown a second yellow card and dismissed, however, after going too far in his celebrations. Hoffenheim were therefore reduced to 10 men for the closing stages.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, the home side added a third goal in the sixth minute of stoppage time. Kramaric struck the crossbar before Max Moerstedt reacted quickest to the rebound and poked the ball into the net.

The goal completed a striking finish to the match and secured a 3-0 victory for Hoffenheim, while Leverkusen left empty-handed despite Tella’s involvement and Boniface’s presence among the substitutes.