UEL: Leverkusen defeat Roma in Rome to keep treble hopes alive

Bayer Leverkusen defeated AS Roma 2-0 in their UEFA Europa League semi-final first-leg clash at the Stadio Olimpico, courtesy of goals from Florian Wirtz and Robert Andrich on Thursday.

Having attested to Danielle De Rossi’s hands of transformation on Wednesday, Leonardo Paredes creatively set up Romelu Lukaku for Roma’s opening goal, but the Belgian placed his header off the bar as Leverkusen rallied back to get into the game.

After getting their acts together, the visitors punished the hosts’ mistake, as Álex Grimaldo and Florian Wirtz both combined to capitalise on a defensive error from Rick Karsdorp in the 28th minute.

Leverkusen maintained their dominance throughout the game—creating numerous chances and eventually doubling their lead through Robert Andrich’s emphatic strike in the 73rd minute.

The match was not without its moments of controversy, as a heated exchange ensued following Leverkusen’s second goal. However, the altercation resulted in only minor disciplinary action.

Despite Roma’s efforts to claw their way back into the game, the Die Werkself remained resolute and ultimately secured a comfortable victory ahead of the return leg in Germany.

The win extended Leverkusen’s tally to 47 games unbeaten in all competitions. The 2023/24 Bundesliga giants are now three games away from completing a treble.