Bayer Leverkusen secured their place in the UEFA Europa League final with a thrilling 2-2 draw against Roma at the BayArena, sealing a 4-2 aggregate victory. Despite trailing 2-0 in the first leg, Roma fought back with two penalties from Leandro Paredes. However, an own goal by Gianluca Mancini and a stoppage-time equaliser by Josip Stanisic ensured Leverkusen’s progression and extended their unbeaten streak to 49 games.
Josip Stanisic’s 97th-minute goal proved decisive as Bayer Leverkusen produced a dramatic comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Roma and advance to the UEFA Europa League final, maintaining their invincible treble aspirations.
Roma initially threatened Leverkusen’s unbeaten run when Leandro Paredes converted two penalties to level the tie, putting the hosts under pressure. However, an own goal by Gianluca Mancini provided Leverkusen with a lifeline, setting the stage for Stanisic’s late heroics to salvage the draw.
Leverkusen’s aggregate victory not only propelled them to the final but also extended their remarkable unbeaten streak to 49 games, surpassing the previous record set by Benfica between 1963 and 1965.
Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen will now face Serie A side Atalanta in the final showdown in Dublin, following Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Marseille in the semi-finals.
Despite being two goals down in the final minutes of normal time, Leverkusen’s resilience prevailed, epitomising their status as contenders for the German invincibles title and potential treble winners.
The key moment in the game came with Mancini’s own goal, shifting the momentum decisively in Leverkusen’s favour and ultimately sealing their victory. Leverkusen’s relentless attacking display, highlighted by Granit Xhaka’s record-equalling performance, showcased their determination to maintain their unbeaten streak.
With Leverkusen’s dominance evident in their shot count across recent home games, their journey to the final has been characterised by relentless pursuit and unwavering determination, setting the stage for a historic showdown in Dublin.
