Match Report: Bayer 04 Leverkusen 4 – 0 Racing Genk
International Club Friendly • 29 July 2026

Match Overview

Bayer 04 Leverkusen produced a devastating display of attacking football as they thrashed Belgian Jupiler Pro League side Racing Genk 4‑0 in a pre‑season friendly. The match, played at the BayArena, served as an ideal tune‑up for the upcoming Bundesliga campaign, with the home side demonstrating sharpness in front of goal and defensive solidity. New signing Jonathan Tah (returning from injury) impressed at centre‑back, while the front three caused constant problems for the Genk backline.

Key Moments

• 14’ – Leverkusen take the lead: Florian Wirtz collected a pass on the edge of the box, turned his marker, and drilled a low shot into the corner.
• 31’ – Second goal: A sweeping team move ended with Jeremie Frimpong crossing from the right, and Victor Boniface volleyed home from close range.
• 49’ – Third goal after the break: Wirtz turned provider, slipping a perfectly weighted through ball to Amine Adli, who slotted under the goalkeeper.
• 71’ – Fourth and final goal: Substitute Patrik Schick rose to meet a corner and powered a header past Genk’s keeper to complete the scoring.

Tactical Story

Leverkusen operated in a fluid 3‑4‑3 formation, with wing‑backs pushing high and the front three interchanging positions. Their pressing was relentless, forcing Genk into mistakes high up the pitch. The Belgian side struggled to cope with the pace and movement of Leverkusen’s attackers, and their midfield was overrun for long periods. Xabi Alonso’s side had control of the game from start to finish, completing over 80% of their passes and limiting Genk to just two shots on target.

Standout Players

• Florian Wirtz (Leverkusen): A goal and an assist; his creativity and vision were a class above.
• Victor Boniface (Leverkusen): Powerful and direct, scored a spectacular volley and held the ball up superbly.
• Jonathan Tah (Leverkusen): Made his return to the starting lineup with a composed defensive display.

Friendly Context

This match was part of Leverkusen’s pre‑season preparations ahead of the 2026‑27 Bundesliga season. The comprehensive victory will boost confidence as they look to improve on last season’s league finish. For Racing Genk, the heavy defeat highlighted defensive issues that need addressing before the start of their Belgian Pro League campaign. Genk’s coach, Wouter Vrancken, will have plenty of work to do on the training ground after this one‑sided affair.