Bayer Leverkusen Grab First-Leg Advantage Over Roma
Andrich and Wirtz on Target
Leverkusen Look to Book Semi-Final Spot
Bayer Leverkusen have taken a significant step towards reaching the semi-finals of the Europa League after beating Roma 2-0 in the first leg of their quarter-final clash. Florian Wirtz and Robert Andrich scored the goals for the Bundesliga outfit, who will now have a slender advantage heading into the second leg in Italy next week.
Leverkusen came into the game as slight underdogs, but they started brightly and took the lead after just 12 minutes through Wirtz. The German midfielder curled a beautiful left-footed effort into the top corner from outside the area, leaving Roma goalkeeper Rui Patricio with no chance.
Roma looked to respond immediately, but they found it difficult to break down a well-organized Leverkusen defense. Patrik Schick had a chance to double the lead just after the half-hour mark, but his shot was blocked by Chris Smalling.
Leverkusen extended their lead midway through the second half when Andrich scored a stunning goal. The German midfielder picked up the ball on the left-hand side of the area and unleashed a powerful right-footed drive that flew into the top corner.
Roma had a chance to pull a goal back late on, but Lorenzo Pellegrini's free-kick was well saved by Lukas Hradecky. Leverkusen held on to their two-goal lead and will now take a slender advantage into the second leg, which will be played in Rome next Thursday.
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