May 3, (THEWILL) – Bayer Leverkusen edged closer to a first European final in 22 years after securing a commanding 2-0 advantage against Roma in the UEFA Europa League semi-final first leg. The German side extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to a staggering 47 games, setting a new European record. Despite playing away from home, Xabi Alonso’s men displayed ruthless attacking prowess at the Stadio Olimpico.
Roma squandered a golden opportunity to take the lead when Romelu Lukaku’s header struck the bar from Leandro Paredes’ cross. Leverkusen capitalised on a defensive mistake, with Rick Karsdorp’s under-hit pass allowing Alex Grimaldo to tee up Florian Wirtz for the opener. The visitors relentlessly piled pressure, creating numerous chances to extend their lead before the interval, with Jeremie Frimpong and Wirtz going close.
Both sides spurned glaring opportunities early in the second half, as Piero Hincapie and Bryan Cristante missed from close range. Daniele De Rossi’s tactical change, introducing Angelino for Karsdorp, failed to stem Leverkusen’s attacking threat. Robert Andrich’s thunderous strike from the edge of the box doubled the visitors’ advantage, prompting a scuffle that ultimately had no impact on the result.
Despite Sardar Azmoun’s effort being denied by Matej Kovar, Leverkusen comfortably held onto their two-goal cushion. The clean sheet represented only their second shutout in 11 away knockout games in UEFA competitions this season. Xabi Alonso’s side are now firm favourites to progress to the final, where they could face either Atalanta or Marseille.
Leverkusen’s remarkable unbeaten streak and ruthless performance in Rome underline their credentials as potential Europa League champions. With a first European final in over two decades within their grasp, the German outfit will be determined to seize the opportunity.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
