Bayer Leverkusen have earned breathing space in the final Champions League qualifying spot after beating Mainz 05 3-2 at the Coface Arena.
The visitors dominated throughout the first half, and they were ahead in the 15th minute when Hakan Calhanoglu's inviting cross was turned home by Heung-Min Son.
© Getty Images
Mainz struggled to produce a response to an impressive start from Roger Schmidt's side, but Leverkusen were unable to create many clear opportunities before the half-time interval.
It was a different story after the break as Stefan Kiessling was gifted the space to run through the home defence, and the striker took full advantage by doubling his side's lead with a calm finish.
Leverkusen appeared to be cruising to all three points when Calhanoglu scored the goal of the day by picking out the top corner with a stunning free kick.
However, Mainz were gifted a chance to get back in the game when Omer Toprak brought down Shinji Okazaki in the box, and Ja-Cheol Koo slotted home the penalty to reduce the deficit.
There was another twist in stoppage time when Koo scored his second penalty of the afternoon after Jairo Samperio had invited a foul from Tin Jedvaj.
Leverkusen managed to survive the late onslaught to secure the victory, which moves them 10 points clear of fifth-placed Schalke 04.
Callum Mulvihill
