Bayer Leverkusen match reaction

Julian Nagelsmann: We didn’t start the game very well. After the red card, however, we had a good period of play and then made it 1-0. Shortly afterwards, we were lucky that Julian Brandt didn’t make the most of his chance. The second goal shortly after half-time was important. After that we controlled the game and then managed to get a third. We had a few more good chances, which were really well created. I’m especially pleased with the second-half performance. Overall, it was a successful away win.

Roger Schmidt: First of all, congratulations to my opposite number and his team. We were up for the game and started well. The red card changed the complexion of the game, though. After that, we went 1-0 down and then it became an even more difficult task. I thought we played really well up until half-time, but it was incredibly difficult after we went 2-0 down, shortly after the break. You have to say that Hoffenheim played really well and didn’t let us back into the game.

Kevin Vogt: I feel very comfortable in the middle of a back three. I still don’t know what the problem with my hand is. I collided with Chicharito’s back and then my thumb clicked. I will need to speak to the physio. At the moment, we are on a roll and we want to keep it that way. We will do everything to stay focused, if it then doesn’t start going well. But I think that we are battling well and we have a killer instinct in the side, which will help us a lot.

Andrej Kramaric: A fourth win on the trot. Obviously it feels great. I think we have to try and carry on this streak and then we will have a good season. Of course, it was a lot easier playing against ten men, as we had a lot more room and more possession. We know that we would get a few chances. After making it 2-0, I had the feeling that we had Leverkusen where we wanted them and wouldn’t let them back into the game.

Kerem Demirbay: I feel sorry for Kevin Volland. But when you are travelling at that speed, even the slightest of touches can bring you down. I didn’t think it was a certain red card. But what impresses me about our team is that we all fight for each other. We have a very tight-knit unit. I’m really pleased with today’s result.

Oliver Baumann: Our plan worked right from the start. We wanted to get beyond the Leverkusen defence. That then led to the red card. Overall, we deserved the win.

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