Gruda's goals spark Leipzig attack in Champions League after Bundesliga break

Brajan Gruda gave RB Leipzig a 1‑0 win over PSV Eindhoven in the Red Bull Arena with a 75‑minute goal, securing the first victory of the new UEFA Champions League campaign. The Croatian striker Ivan Perišić had previously missed a penalty, while goalkeeper Maarten Vandevoordt saved the attempt.

Early chances and first goal opportunity

Leipzig started with only one change after the 6‑0 win against Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga, with Gruda again in the starting lineup. Already in the first five minutes, Ridle Baku produced a dangerous cross that was saved by goalkeeper Matěj Kovář.

PSV responded in the 18th minute with a penalty after Baku handled the cross. Perišić stepped up, but Vandevoordt saved the shot comfortably.

Half‑time development and offensive pressure

In the first half the game remained tight, but Gruda repeatedly troubled the PSV defence. A later attempt by Neil El Aynaoui went over the goal, while Antonio Nusa narrowly missed the post.

Gruda secures Leipzig's win in Champions League drama against PSV

After the break Leipzig continued the pressure: Nusa forced Kovář into a strong save, and Sven Mijnans squandered a clear chance for PSV. Vandevoordt continued to block the shots from Kostić and Sergiño Dest, while Kovář made double saves against Gruda and Willi Orbán.

The decisive moment

The turning point came in the 75th minute: after a corner from Leipzig Gruda reached the ball, beat a defender and struck with a slight deflection into the far corner. The goal put Leipzig ahead.

PSV briefly thought they could equalise when Armando Obispo headed the ball after a cross from Ruben van Bommel, but the flag indicated offside. Despite further corners Leipzig held on to the narrow lead and collected three points.