Bundesliga Champions Take Command of Europa League Semi-Final
Bayer Leverkusen Claim First-Leg Victory at Roma, Stretch Unbroken European Run
Goals from Wirtz and Andrich Give Germans Advantage Heading into Home Leg
ROME, Italy (AP) — Bayer Leverkusen, the reigning Bundesliga champions, have taken a commanding lead in their Europa League semi-final after claiming a 2-0 victory in the first leg away at AS Roma in Italy. Goals from Florian Wirtz and Robert Andrich have put the German side on the cusp of a place in the final.
The match, played in front of a partisan crowd at Roma's Stadio Olimpico, saw Leverkusen withstand early pressure from the hosts to take an early lead through Wirtz in the 25th minute. The German youngster capitalized on a defensive error to slot home from close range.
Andrich doubled Leverkusen's advantage just before half-time with a thunderous shot from outside the area, leaving Roma keeper Rui Patricio with no chance. The second half was a more even affair, with both teams creating chances, but Leverkusen held firm to maintain their advantage.
The victory extends Leverkusen's unbeaten run in European competition to 10 matches, highlighting the team's impressive form on the continent. They are now in a strong position to secure a place in the Europa League final, which will be played on May 18 in Seville, Spain.
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