Champions League aspirations for Leipzig fall short as Bochum and Kiel are relegated instead
In the final stretch of the Bundesliga, Leipzig finds itself in a tough spot, battling for a slippery slope of European glory. Having missed the Champions League only once since their 2017 promotion, this season's journey has been disheartening.
Their recent clash with Bremen, aiming for a 15-year European return, turned sour as Leipzig failed to secure a spot in the Champions League. Xavi Simons came the closest, rattling the post and forcing a save, but it wasn't enough to turn the tide.Christoph Baumgartner voiced the team's frustration, "It's bloody disappointing. We're in matchday 33 and we didn't make it. We don't deserve the Champions League."
With only one match left to play against Stuttgart, Leipzig's European hopes hang by a thread. Meanwhile, Bremen's European aspirations are now mathematically challenging due to their poor goal difference.
On the other hand, Freiburg sits comfortably in pole position, four points clear of Borussia Dortmund, who have two games left. A win for Freiburg could herald their first-ever Champions League appearance.
Meanwhile, Kiel's hope of survival in the top flight was dashed after a 2-1 loss to Freiburg. Despite a valiant effort, they've picked up just two points from their last eight games, failing to keep their dreams alive.
As the season reaches its climax, the Bundesliga title will be presented to Bayern, securing their 34th title, after their home match against Borussia Moenchengladbach. Bayer Leverkusen, who handed Bayern their only draw this season, host Dortmund in Xabi Alonso's last home game with the club.
Looking at Leipzig's situation, they find themselves trailing Mainz, who are currently tied on points and ahead due to a better goal difference. The Champions League dream is fading, but a strong showing in their remaining match could secure them a spot in the Europa League or Conference League.
However, it won't be easy. Leipzig needs to overtake Mainz, who are hosting Bayer Leverkusen, while Leipzig faces Stuttgart. The results of these matches will significantly influence their European fate for the 2025/26 season.
If they fail to secure a European spot, Leipzig will join Bochum, whose four-year stint in the Bundesliga came to an end after a 4-1 loss to Mainz. Bochum's run of good results, including wins over Bayern Munich and Dortmund, was simply not enough to keep them afloat.
In the grand scheme of things, Leipzig's Champions League qualification looks bleak, but the Europa League or Conference League is still within reach. The final matchday is all that stands between them and their European destiny for next season.
Leipzig's European aspirations extend beyond the Champions League, as they aim to secure a spot in either the Europa League or the Conference League. In the same vein, Bremen's goal of returning to European-leagues after 15 years is faced with mathematical difficulties due to their poor goal difference.
