49 Unbeaten Streak: Leverkusen Advances to Europa League Final
In a dramatic showdown, Bayer Leverkusen has etched their name into the annals of European football history by extending their unbeaten streak to an unprecedented 49 games across all competitions. This remarkable feat was achieved through a hard-fought 2-2 draw against AS Roma, securing a 4-2 aggregate victory in the Europa League semi-final.
The match witnessed Josip Stanisic's heroic intervention with the final kick of the game, leveling the scoreline and sealing Leverkusen's place in the final. Despite Roma's improved performance, highlighted by Leandro Paredes' two penalties, including a late equalizer, an own goal by Gianluca Mancini ultimately tilted the scales in Leverkusen's favor.
The Bundesliga champions, under the stewardship of manager Xabi Alonso, demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the encounter. Leverkusen's dominance was evident, particularly in the first half, with Granit Xhaka striking the post and several missed opportunities squandered.
The significance of Leverkusen's achievement is underscored by their surpassing of the previous European unbeaten record set by Benfica in the 1960s. This historic milestone reinforces Leverkusen's stature as a formidable force in European football.
Looking ahead, Bayer Leverkusen will face Italian side Atalanta in the Europa League final, scheduled to take place in Dublin on May 22nd. The anticipation is palpable as Leverkusen seeks to cap off a memorable season with a potential treble, having already secured the Bundesliga title and progressed to the German Cup final.
As the Leverkusen players jubilantly celebrated their achievement on the pitch, the focus now shifts to the upcoming final, where they aim to etch their name in European football lore once again.
