On Saturday, April 6, 2024, Union Berlin hosted Bundesliga table leaders Bayer Leverkusen in a game that saw Robin Gosens shown a red card “for breathing.” Consequently, a penalty was awarded. Florian Wirtz stepped up to take on the responsibility and scored the goal that managed to see Bayer Leverkusen take home all three points with a 0-1 win.
Bayer Leverkusen are currently unbeaten in the league with 24 wins and 4 draws. This has put too much scrutiny and attention to the club and its recent success that has surprised many. Their coach, Xabi Alonso being in his very first season has actually led to more of the scrutiny.
How the “Red Card for Breathing” Happened:
Truth be told, referee Benjamin Brand from Germany who officiated the match did not award Robin Gosens a red card for breathing. It was rather awarded for a foul on Nathan Tella. This was in the stoppage time of the first half. By then the tension was tough and any slight mistake in the Goal Keeper’s box couldn’t have yielded positive results.
In fact, the “red card for breathing” phrase was started by popular X (formerly Twitter) football-focused account Troll Football. The latter is known for making fun of many football scenarios happening across various football leagues in the world.
Reactions about the “Red Card for Breathing”:
One expressed confidence in Bayer Leverkusen’s continued success, stating, “He shouldn’t worry; we are still going to win the League.” Another fan suggested skepticism towards the coach, Xabi Alonso, remarking, “This man might be paying refs.”
Additionally, comparisons were drawn to other clubs, with one fan noting, “Bayer doing the same as what Real Madrid has been doing since the start.”Some fans speculated about league bias, stating, “The Bundesliga is tired of Bayern winning the league, so I feel they are doing everything to make Bayer Leverkusen win this league.” Others dismissed the incident as conspiracy, with one fan commenting, “It’s all nonsense about fixed matches.”
What Next?
Bayer Leverkusen will host English Premier League club West Ham United in the first leg of the Europa League Quarterfinals on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 23:00 EST.
