Leipzig closer to Champions League after 3-1 win against Union Berlin

Danilho Doekhi pulled one back for the guests in the 78th but it was already too late.

Leipzig are third and very close to securing a spot in the Champions League after failing to qualify for the competition this season.

"We could have defended better but overall we're happy to take the three points at home. Definitely a deserved win," Leipzig defender Willi Orban told broadcasters Sky.

Union haven't won in five matches, a run that includes four defeats. They are 11th in the standings, six points from the relegation zone with three games left.

There was a curious scene behind the goal during the match: Red Bull managing director Oliver Mintzlaff was running on a treadmill to promote the Wings for Life World Run, which supports advancing spinal cord injury research.

Leipzig's Max Finkgraefe celebrates after scoring his side's first goal of the game during the German Bundesliga soccer match between RB Leipzig and 1. FC Union Berlin at Red Bull Arena. Jan Woitas/dpa

Leipzig's Ridle Baku (R) celebrates his side's third goal of the game alongside Union Berlin goalkeeper Carl Klaus during the German Bundesliga soccer match between RB Leipzig and 1. FC Union Berlin at Red Bull Arena. Jan Woitas/dpa

Leipzig's Ridle Baku (R) celebrates with Leipzig's Max Finkgraefe after scoring his side's third goal of the game during the German Bundesliga soccer match between RB Leipzig and 1. FC Union Berlin at Red Bull Arena. Jan Woitas/dpa

Leipzig's Xaver Schlager (R) and Union Berlin's Andrej Ilic in a header duel during the German Bundesliga soccer match between RB Leipzig and 1. FC Union Berlin at Red Bull Arena. Jan Woitas/dpa