Nathan Tella has been praised by Kasper Hjulmand after the Nigerian delivered a goal and an assist in Bayer Leverkusen’s emphatic 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
- +Leverkusen coach hails Tella’s quality
The Super Eagles forward produced a standout performance at the BayArena, playing a decisive role as Leverkusen strengthened their push for a UEFA Champions League place.
The Super Eagles forward produced a standout performance at the BayArena, playing a decisive role as Leverkusen strengthened their push for a UEFA Champions League place.
The result lifted the club to fourth position on 58 points, keeping them firmly in contention for qualification.
Reflecting on the display, Hjulmand highlighted Tella’s importance to the team, pointing to his energy, movement and attacking contribution as key factors in the victory.
“He gives us a lot of energy and quality overall – especially in depth,” he said according to Liga Insider.
Tella’s performance marked a significant milestone in his return from injury, as he ended a 458-day wait for a goal.
His last strike came in Leverkusen’s 2-0 UEFA Champions League win against Sparta Praha on January 29, 2025.
Since then, the 26-year-old had struggled with recurring fitness issues, limiting him to 24 appearances and affecting his rhythm during the campaign.
Against Leipzig, however, he rediscovered his sharpness, first setting up Patrik Schick for the opening goal before doubling the lead himself with a well-timed run and composed finish before half-time.
Leverkusen went on to complete a dominant 4-1 win, ending Leipzig’s five-game winning streak and strengthening their position in the race for a top-four finish with two matches remaining.
Tella, who joined the Bundesliga side from Southampton, has now recorded one goal and three assists in seven league appearances since returning to action.
Leverkusen’s next fixture will see them face Stuttgart in a decisive encounter, with both sides level on 58 points.
The match is expected to play a significant role in determining the final Champions League qualification places, with Tella likely to remain central to his team’s attacking plans if his current form continues.
