RB Leipzig dominated Union Berlin with a commanding 3-1 victory at the Red Bull Arena, securing three crucial points with an explosive first-half display that left their visitors with no answer.
Leipzig entered the match in third place with 59 points from 30 games, riding a four-game winning streak. Union Berlin arrived in 11th position with just 32 points, struggling with one win in their last five outings. The hosts controlled possession and territory from the opening whistle, immediately asserting their attacking intent.
Max Finkgräfe broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute, firing past Union's goalkeeper to give Leipzig the lead. The home crowd erupted moments later when Romulo Cardoso doubled the advantage just three minutes after, in the 25th minute. Leipzig's early intensity proved overwhelming for their visitors.
Union Berlin offered little resistance during the opening period. They managed just one shot on target in the entire match, while Leipzig peppered their goalkeeper with 10 efforts on goal. The visitors struggled to build any attacking momentum against Leipzig's pressing defense.
Christopher Baumgartner received a yellow card in the 34th minute as Leipzig's aggression intensified. Despite Union's attempts to settle into the game, they remained largely confined to defensive duties. Leipzig's midfield controlled the tempo, completing 525 of 602 passes with 87 percent accuracy.
The second half began with Leipzig still in complete control. Union Berlin made tactical adjustments but failed to create meaningful chances. Leipzig continued their dominance through midfield and possession.
Ridle Baku sealed the victory in the 63rd minute with Leipzig's third goal, effectively ending any hopes of a Union comeback. Baku's composed finish showcased Leipzig's clinical edge throughout the match. The defender earned an 8.2 rating for his influential performance.
Danilho Doekhi pulled one back for Union in the 78th minute, scoring a consolation goal that offered brief resistance. However, the goal came too late to change the match's trajectory. Doekhi's effort proved merely a footnote to Leipzig's dominant display.
Dario Leite received a yellow card in the 84th minute as Union's frustration mounted. Leipzig controlled the closing stages without difficulty, seeing out the remaining minutes comfortably. The final whistle confirmed a comprehensive home victory.
Leipzig's expected goals (xG) of 3.82 reflected their superior quality, while Union managed just 0.18. The hosts completed 20 total shots compared to Union's four attempts. Leipzig's 67 percent possession proved decisive in their comfortable win.
This victory strengthens Leipzig's position in the top three and extends their recent form. Union Berlin's struggles continue, with their 11th-place finish reflecting a season of inconsistency. The gap between these sides proved vast on the pitch.
