Füllkrug and Dinkçi Lead Werder Bremen to Surprise Win Over Leipzig

Werder Bremen found a burst of energy from returning players and handed RB Leipzig a surprisingly heavy 3-1 defeat. Eren Dinkçi opened the scoring in the fourth minute, Niclas Füllkrug headed in the second in the 68th, and Marco Grüll added a third in the 80th. Ridle Baku pulled one back for Leipzig in the sixth minute of stoppage time.

The result marked a sharp improvement for Bremen after the team’s 4-1 loss at Freiburg. Playing before 39,713 fans, Daniel Thioune’s side responded to a difficult start and the frustration surrounding the club’s transfer business. Supporters had called for the team to “fight and win” on a large banner before kickoff.

Dinkçi, who returned to Bremen from Freiburg, finished calmly after a precise pass from Chuki. His return to the starting lineup brought an immediate reward. Füllkrug also looked more lively than he had in the opening match at Freiburg.

Leipzig improved as the first half progressed but lacked effectiveness. Antonio Nusa wasted a good opportunity, while referee Benjamin Brand overturned a penalty after reviewing the incident on video. Bremen goalkeeper Karl Hein had played the ball before making contact with Christopher Nkunku.

Leipzig repeatedly reached the Bremen penalty area through its fast wingers, but the visitors often made the final move too complicated. Neil El Aynaoui, making his debut after arriving on loan from Roma shortly before the transfer window closed, showed some promising moments but also lacked decisiveness. Leipzig now faces its Champions League opener against Como on Thursday.