Peter Bosz’s side came into the game with a lot at stake as Die Werkself were in strong pursuit of Champions League places.
All of those hopes look more or less blown away as Leverkusen saw themselves drop to fifth place in the Bundesliga standings after the defeat.
Leverkusen failed to convert their chances despite having most of the possession and were punished by a Hertha side who worked hard as a unit for their victory.
The Berliners were clearly struggling with Leverkusen’s speed down the wings but they struck against the run of play with a quick break and a finish by Matheus Cunha, who earned his fifth goal in his 20th league game in the 22nd minute.
The Brazilian has not featured as much as he would have loved to so far but has been a reliable name when he has been called upon so far this season. Asides his five goals scored, the 21-year-old has also chipped in with three assists for Hertha Berlin.
After Cunha’s opener, Hertha Berlin scored again nine minutes after the restart just as Leverkusen looked to be getting back into the game.
A superb solo run by Krzysztof Piatek was capped off with a glorious finish by Dodi Lukebakio.
Leverkusen coach Peter Bosz brought on two more strikers, Paulinho and Lucas Alario, in the second half but Hertha hung on to secure three points and moved up to 10th place.
For Leverkusen, it sees them drop to fifth place behind Borussia Monchengladbach while Hertha Berlin are now up to tenth place.
