# Bundesliga Round 22: Bayer Leverkusen Beats VfL Bochum with a Hat-Trick from Wirtz and Assist from Diaby
In a thrilling encounter in the Bundesliga Round 22, Bayer Leverkusen triumphed over VfL Bochum with a decisive 4-1 victory. The match was highlighted by Leverkusen’s clinical efficiency in front of goal, with debutant Luca Wirtz delivering a memorable hat-trick. Additionally, former Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Diaby played a pivotal role, setting up the first goal for Leverkusen.
## Match Summary
The game opened with high tension, as both sides aimed to impose their styles. Leverkusen, known for their attacking flair, dominated possession early on, but Bochum initially held firm. The visitors broke the deadlock in the 15th minute when Diaby delivered a perfectly weighted cross for Kevin Volland to finish. Leverkusen’s momentum continued, and Wirtz, who had joined the club on loan earlier in the season, marked his debut with a stunning goal in the 35th minute.
Bochum, despite falling behind, showed resilience and fought back through Christoph Kramer’s equalizer in the 54th minute. However, Leverkusen’s composure under pressure told as Wirtz completed his hat-trick with a clinical finish in the 63rd minute. The hosts sealed their win with a fourth goal, thanks to an own goal by Bochum’s Daniel Akpallo.
## Key Players
Lucas Wirtz was the star of the show, netting a hat-trick and showcasing his predatory instincts in front of goal. His performance earned him Man of the Match honors and underlined his growing importance to Leverkusen’s attack. Meanwhile, Mathieu Diaby played a crucial role in the first goal and demonstrated his ability to create chances with his vision and passing.
For Bochum, attacker Anthony Modeste continued his inconsistent form, while goalkeeper Manuel Rodeiro made several crucial saves to keep Leverkusen at bay. Despite the loss, Bochum’s fighting spirit was evident, especially in the latter stages as they pushed for an equalizer.
## Post-Match Reactions
Leverkusen manager Gerardo Seoane praised Wirtz’s contribution and the team’s overall performance, stating, “Lucas was exceptional. His goal-scoring ability is a huge asset, and he worked hard defensively too. We’re happy with the win, but we need to keep pushing as the season isn’t over yet.”
Bochum boss Thomas Reichenbacher acknowledged Leverkusen’s dominance, saying, “They were just too strong for us today. We had moments where we could have scored, but Leverkusen capitalized on their chances. We’ll learn from this and move on.”
## Implications
Leverkusen’s victory moves them closer to securing a top-four finish, with their attacking depth proving decisive. Meanwhile, Bochum’s performance highlights their potential to compete at the higher levels of the Bundesliga.
This match was a classic example of how clinical efficiency can overcome defensive resilience, and it underscores the importance of key players in determining the outcome of such contests.