RB Leipzig Open Pre‑Season With Close Win

Martin Demichelis’ Touchline Debut

RB Leipzig launched their pre‑season campaign with a tight 2‑1 success over VSG Altglienicke, marking Martin Demichelis’ first managerial appearance on the touchline. The two‑time DFB‑Pokal winners return to European competition after missing out on the Champions League last term. The narrow victory gives Demichelis an early blueprint ahead of the competitive fixture list.

Brajan Gruda Nets Early Lead

Brajan Gruda, who joined the club permanently following a loan spell, opened the scoring for Leipzig in the opening half. His strike set the tone for a day that would test the new regime. The midfielder’s finish highlighted his growing role in the side’s future plans.

VSG Altglienicke Equalise Before Break

Altglienicke, a fourth‑tier team from the Regionalliga Northeast, struck back before halftime to level the contest. The visitors’ tenacity showcased the challenge lower‑division clubs pose to top‑flight preparations. The equalizer left the match hanging in the balance for the second half.

Johan Bakayoko Secures Victory

A reshuffled Leipzig side responded immediately after the break, with Johan Bakayoko turning a cross into the net for the winning goal. His early strike in the second period proved decisive, handing Demichelis a glimpse of the squad’s attacking spark. The win underscored the depth available across the rotation.

Maximine Estève and Rocco Rietz Warm Up

New signings Maxime Estève and Rocco Rietz were named in the matchday squad but did not feature in the encounter. Both players have joined as part of the club’s summer recruitment drive. Their presence signals continued activity as the club builds for the upcoming season.

Next Steps: Trier and Mönchengladbach

Leipzig will follow up this friendly with a competitive tilt against Eintracht Trier, providing Demichelis his first test in official competition. The squad then heads into the Bundesliga season opener away at Borussia Mönchengladbach. These fixtures will serve as key checkpoints for the emerging lineup.