UEL: Leverkusen with one foot in final after victory at Roma

Goals from Florian Wirtz and Robert Andrich took Bayer Leverkusen a big step closer to securing a UEFA Europa League final spot as Xabi Alonso’s men took a brilliant win in Rome.

Despite dominating possession early on, Leverkusen found themselves under pressure in the opening stages. Roma took pleasure in giving up field position for rare opportunities on the break.

Daniele De Rossi’s side almost scored in the 21st minute, with the cross bar repelling Romelu Lukaku’s powerful header as he latched onto a Leandro Paredes cross.

Die Werkself eventually began to purr, and the breakthrough came before the half-hour mark. Rick Karsdorp’s concentration was forced to lapse due to an aggressive press.

The Dutch fullback gave up possession, and Alejandro Grimaldo squared to Florian Wirtz, who scored from 12 metres out. Frimpong and Andrich came close to doubling Xabi Alonso’s side’s first-half lead before halftime.

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At the restart, Bryan Cristante glanced header that went just wide. Angeliño, a player on loan from RB Leipzig, quickly replaced Karsdorp at full-back.

Except for the Roma midfielder’s chance, Leverkusen controlled the game’s flow. Possibly the most dangerous front facing Roma was the aerial bombardment.

Leverkusen scored a second goal in the 73rd minute to extend their lead to 2-0. Though Josip Stanišić regained possession on the right flank, Grimaldo’s attack on the left was unsuccessful.

Robert Andrich came out again to rap the net from 20 meters. An enormous goal in the context of the tie, while early rests could be afforded to Adli and Wirtz.

Tammy Abraham headed over an open goal in stoppage time, keeping the German champions unbeaten in a remarkable 47 competitive games in 2023/24 and in an ideal position in the tie ahead of next Thursday’s second leg in Germany.