Bayer Leverkusen asserted their dominance in the Europa League semi-final with a commanding 2-0 victory over Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.
According to a report by BBC Sports, the Bundesliga champions showcased their prowess with goals from Florian Wirtz and Robert Andrich, securing only their second win on Italian soil.
The match began with a tentative rhythm, lacking in clear-cut opportunities until Leverkusen seized the initiative. Alex Grimaldo's astute interception led to a clinical finish from Wirtz, setting the tone for the visitors' dominance.
Despite Roma's attempts to rally, including a flurry of chances before halftime, Leverkusen maintained their composure. Andrich extended their lead with a sensational strike from distance, leaving Roma goalkeeper Pau Lopez with no chance.
Roma's star striker, Romelu Lukaku, endured a frustrating evening, epitomizing his team's struggles in the face of Leverkusen's defensive solidity. His replacement, Tammy Abraham, squandered a late opportunity to salvage a goal for the hosts.
With this victory, Xabi Alonso's men extended their remarkable unbeaten streak to 47 matches across all competitions, underlining their status as formidable contenders in European football.
Meanwhile, in the other semi-final clash, Marseille and Atalanta battled to a 1-1 draw at the Stade Vélodrome. Gianluca Scamacca opened the scoring for Atalanta, only for Chancel Mbemba to equalize for Marseille with a stunning long-range effort.
Both matches have set the stage for intriguing second-leg encounters, with Leverkusen firmly in control of their tie against Roma, while Marseille and Atalanta remain deadlocked, leaving everything to play for in the return fixtures.