Leverkusen’s Historic Run Continues with Europa League Semi-Finals Qualification
Leverkusen, the newly-crowned Bundesliga champions, have taken another step towards a historic treble after securing a spot in the UEFA Europa League semi-finals. With an unbeaten streak of 44 games this season, Xabi Alonso’s side drew 1-1 against West Ham United, progressing 3-1 on aggregate.
West Ham’s Early Lead
In the previous round, Leverkusen had overturned a first-leg deficit to beat Freiburg, and West Ham boss David Moyes believed his side still had a chance against the treble-chasing German team. The Hammers started strongly, and their early dominance paid off in the 13th minute. Jarrod Bowen, who had recently returned from injury, delivered a superb inswinging cross into the six-yard box, and Michail Antonio outjumped Leverkusen’s goalkeeper to head the ball into an empty net.
Throughout the first half, West Ham continued to threaten in the final third, with Bowen’s angled strike denied by the feet of Leverkusen’s keeper, Matěj Kovář. However, despite their efforts, the visitors’ defense held firm, maintaining their aggregate lead heading into halftime.
Leverkusen’s Second-Half Comeback
Clearly unsatisfied with his team’s performance in the first half, Alonso made tactical substitutions, introducing Victor Boniface and Jeremie Frimpong after the restart. These changes gave Leverkusen a foothold in the match, and Frimpong came close to equalizing when his mishit cross was saved by West Ham’s goalkeeper, Łukasz Fabiański, at the near post.
As the game entered the final 20 minutes, the tie remained finely balanced, with both teams pushing for a goal. Leverkusen had a golden opportunity to secure their place in the semi-finals when Frimpong found himself clean through on goal, but he wastefully blasted the ball over the bar. However, Frimpong quickly redeemed himself in the 89th minute, as his deflected shot flew past a stranded Fabiański, preserving Leverkusen’s unbeaten record and setting up an exciting semi-final clash against AS Roma.
Leverkusen’s remarkable run of form this season has captured the attention of football fans worldwide. From their dominant performances in the Bundesliga to their impressive progress in the Europa League, they have proven themselves as a force to be reckoned with. As they continue their pursuit of a historic treble, Leverkusen will undoubtedly face tough challenges, but their unbeaten record and strong team spirit make them a formidable opponent for any team.