Schlager “over the moon” as Leipzig seal Champions League return

Schlager “over the moon” as Leipzig seal Champions League return

Ole Werner’s side secured a 2-1 win over St. Pauli, with goals from Xaver Schlager and Willi Orbán putting Die Roten Bullen firmly in control at 2-0. However, Abdoulie Ceesay’s late effort ensured a tense finale before Leipzig ultimately held on to confirm Champions League qualification for next season.

There was a fitting sense of occasion surrounding Leipzig’s opener, as Xaver Schlager - who is set to leave the club on a free transfer after four years in Saxony - marked his final appearance at the Red Bull Arena with a goal in front of the home supporters.

Schlager admitted he was both emotional and delighted after the final whistle:

“The most important thing is that we won today and secured Champions League qualification. I’m over the moon because of that. It definitely wasn’t an easy game - the first half was tough. With my goal, I took a bit of pressure off the team.

I’m taking a lot from Leipzig with me. I got to know some really great people and a wonderful city. I’ve also grown from a footballing perspective and have had good and bad times.

It was a fantastic experience, but now I’m looking for a new adventure. First, I’ll take a short break, then it’ll be time to head to the World Cup.”

Second goalscorer Willi Orbán expressed his relief after Leipzig finally achieved their objective following a demanding campaign:

“We wanted to be back in Europe, and today we were the masters of our own destiny in terms of confirming Champions League qualification. It wasn’t easy - it’s been a long, intense season. But today, we got the job done.”

Managing director for sport Marcel Schäfer also praised the collective effort behind Leipzig’s return to Europe’s premier competition after missing out last season:

“When you think about the situation we were in a year ago and what our task was, everyone would have taken securing qualification for the Champions League with one game to go. Congratulations are in order - not just for the coaching staff and the team, but also for all the employees at the club. Everyone did their bit.”