Match Overview: Bayer Leverkusen defeated AS Roma 2-0 in the first leg of the Europa League semifinal at Stadio Olimpico in Rome, securing a significant advantage ahead of the second leg. This victory extends Leverkusen’s unbeaten run this season to 47 matches, setting a new record for teams from Europe’s top five leagues.
Key Moments:
- First Goal:
- Bayer Leverkusen opened the scoring through Florian Wirtz, who capitalized on a Roma defensive error to score with a simple low finish in the first half.
- Second Goal:
- In the 73rd minute, Robert Andrich doubled Leverkusen’s lead with an unstoppable shot from outside the box, leaving Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar helpless.
- Historic Victory:
- This win marks Leverkusen’s first victory on Italian soil since 1999 when Michael Ballack secured a win for the team.
Season Milestones: Leverkusen’s unbeaten streak this season has reached 47 matches, a significant achievement for the team and its coach, Xabi Alonso. The streak also breaks the record for the longest unbeaten run by any club from Europe’s five biggest leagues.
Implications: The second leg of the semifinal is scheduled to take place in Leverkusen next Thursday. The aggregate winner of this tie will face either Marseille or Atalanta in the final at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on May 22.
Conclusion: Leverkusen’s victory over Roma provides them a comfortable lead going into the second leg. The match at Stadio Olimpico also underscores Leverkusen’s strong season, with their unbeaten run setting new records and securing them a chance for further European glory.
