Leipzig’s comeback powered by Vandevoordt’s saves and Gruda’s winner

In a packed Red Bull Arena, the pressure of a recent Bundesliga gala hung heavy over RB Leipzig, but the German side steadied themselves and delivered a decisive response on the European stage. Three days after a 6‑0 demolition of Eintracht Frankfurt, the team under Martin Demichelis edged PSV Eindhoven 1‑0 in the Champions League, with Brajan Gruda’s 75th‑minute strike sealing the win.

Vandevoordt’s crucial reaction

Goalkeeper Maarten Vandevoordt was called upon early, facing a hand‑ball penalty from former Bundesliga star Ivan Perišić. The Belgian keeper parried the ball with the tip of his foot, sending it into the left corner and denying the chance. His reflexes set the tone, and a second save later kept the score level as PSV pressed for an equaliser.

Gruda’s match‑winner and Leipzig’s redemption

After returning from a abdominal muscle strain, Gruda re‑entered the starting line‑up and, after a solo run past several defenders, placed a low finish past PSV keeper Matej Kovar. The goal, coming just before the break, restored confidence after Leipzig’s 1‑4 loss to Como 1907 a month earlier.

Demichelis had warned before the match that the team needed “a confirmation” to turn the tide, and the victory provided exactly that. The Red Bulls, as the club is known, pressed from the first minute, creating an early chance when Ridle Baku forced a strong save from Kovar.

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

PSV enjoyed periods of dominance, particularly after a mis‑taken hand‑ball that led to the penalty, but Leipzig’s left‑winger Antonio Nusa kept the tempo high, delivering crosses that tested the opposition defence.

The match also featured a disallowed equaliser by Pascal Obispo in the 82nd minute, ruled out for offside, underscoring the fine margins that defined the encounter.

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

Looking ahead, Leipzig will host Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga on Saturday at 18:30, before facing Real Madrid in the Champions League four days later, with the recent win expected to boost confidence for those challenges.