Champions League Thriller: Bayer leverkusen Draws with PSV Eindhoven as Borussia Dortmund Triumphs
COPENHAGEN – Bayer Leverkusen and PSV Eindhoven battled to a 2-2 draw in the first leg of their Champions League tie, while Borussia Dortmund secured a 2-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday. The Leverkusen match,marked by injuries and a late equalizer,leaves their European ambitions hanging in the balance.
Leverkusen manager Xabi alonso acknowledged the pressure surrounding the match, stating before kickoff, “The pressure is always there. But we only think of this game. If we go through our game, we always have a chance to win.” Alonso made three changes from their recent Bundesliga win against FC St. Pauli, with Kofane replacing the injured Patrik Schick (thigh problems), Equi Fernández starting in place of the unfit Nonductor, and Ernest Poku taking the place of elise ben Seghir.
PSV initially threatened, with Ivan Perisic’s early goal disallowed for offside after a VAR check. Leverkusen responded, with Alejandro Grimaldo hitting the post and Aleix García attempting a shot from distance. Goalkeeper Matej Kovar, formerly of Bayer Leverkusen, denied Malik Tillman in the 25th minute. Despite a 7-1 advantage in goal shots by the half-hour mark, Leverkusen failed to capitalize, and PSV regained momentum. A further blow came in the 42nd minute when Leverkusen defender Axel Tape was forced off the field, adding to the team’s injury concerns.
Leverkusen began the second half brightly, with Poku hitting the outside of the net. However,a defensive lapse from PSV allowed Kofane to score in the 52nd minute,capitalizing on a misplayed back pass. the lead proved short-lived, as PSV’s Saibari equalized just minutes later with a precise finish past Mark Flekken.
Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund defeated Athletic Bilbao 2-1, giving them an advantage heading into the second leg.
