In a heart-stopping encounter at the BayArena, Bayer Leverkusen booked their place in the Europa League final despite a nervy 2-2 draw against Roma.
Leverkusen, boasting a comfortable 2-0 lead from the first leg, looked set for a routine passage into the final. However, Roma refused to go down without a fight. Leandro Paredes stepped up twice from the penalty spot, once before half-time and again after the break, to level the score on aggregate and send a jolt of fear through the home crowd.
The Germans found themselves clinging to their unbeaten run and their European dream. But with eight minutes left on the clock, a lifeline appeared. A desperate lunge from Gianluca Mancini turned the ball into his own net, handing Leverkusen a crucial advantage.
The drama wasn’t over yet. As the clock ticked into stoppage time, Josip Stanišić unleashed a stunning volley that rocketed into the net. The BayArena erupted as Leverkusen secured their place in the final with a dramatic last-gasp winner.
This victory extends Leverkusen’s remarkable unbeaten run to a staggering 49 games. Manager Xabi Alonso will be lauded for his side’s incredible consistency and never-say-die attitude.
For Roma, the fightback ultimately fell short. They can be proud of their performance, but their European adventure ends here. Their focus now turns to securing Champions League qualification through Serie A.
Match Highlights:
- Roma’s Penalty Prowess: Leandro Paredes kept Roma in the tie with two well-taken penalties.
- Leverkusen’s Unwavering Spirit: Despite a shaky performance, Leverkusen found a way to win when it mattered most.
- Stanišić Steals the Show: The defender’s late goal will be forever etched in Leverkusen folklore.
Looking Forward:
All eyes now turn to the Europa League final where Leverkusen will aim to cap off their incredible season with European glory. Roma will lick their wounds and push for a strong finish in the Italian league.
This Europa League semi-final was a classic encounter, full of twists and turns. Leverkusen’s last-minute heroics ensured a dramatic conclusion and a place in the final.
