SV Bayer 04 Leverkusen made something of a breakthrough in 1968, by winning the division title, but were unable to advance through the playoff round to the first division.<br />They were relegated again in 1973, but made a quick return to what was now called the 2.<br />Bundesliga after just one season spent in the third division.<br />Four years later, the team handily secured a place in the Bundesliga to start to play there in the 1979-80 season. (*)