Bayer Leverkusen start Europa League with narrow lead against Celje

Bayer Leverkusen, under coach Carles Martínez, won the opening of the Europa League group stage with a narrow 2-0 victory over Slovenian champions NK Celje. The match began with an own goal by Svit Seslar in the 15th minute and put the Werkself on the desired trophy.

First Goal via Own Goal

In the 15th minute, Celje midfielder Svit Seslar missed the defense and, after a failed clearance attempt, inadvertently sent the ball past his own goalkeeper. The own goal put the Werkself ahead early and immediately tipped the match into Bayer Leverkusen's favor.

Medina Secures the Victory

After the break, Facundo Medina capitalized on a corner in the 74th minute, converting the ball in the penalty area to extend the score to 2-0. The Argentine attacking player thereby sealed the narrow lead, while Celje failed to respond despite several chances.

Coach Carles Martínez Opts for Changes

Martínez made six changes compared to the 2-2 draw against FC Augsburg, including the season's first start for Robert Andrich. Ibrahim Maza was absent due to illness, and newcomer Guéla Doué had to miss several weeks because of a muscle injury to his right calf.

Goal: Trophy in Frankfurt by May

The Werkself aims to capture the European trophy in Frankfurt at the end of May, thereby forgetting the painful final defeat of 2024. The goal of lifting the cup provides the team with a clear focus for the upcoming group matches.

Outlook on Bundesliga Duel

Following the Europa League success, the Bundesliga duel against RB Leipzig awaits on the coming Sunday at 15:30, which will be broadcast live. The match offers Bayer Leverkusen the chance to transfer the momentum from the European encounter into the domestic league.

Statistics and Atmosphere

In front of 27,945 spectators at the not‑sold‑out BayArena, Leverkusen celebrated its first international appearance under Martínez, 847 days after the last European competition appearance. The team wore a black special kit that recalls the sole UEFA Cup title from 1988.

Opponent NK Celje and New Leadership

NK Celje introduced on Tuesday the new coach Zoran Zeljkovic, after the previous manager was dismissed following a sporting slump. The Slovenian goalkeeper Zan‑Luk Leban saved several shots, including attempts by Martin Terrier in the 12th and 40th minutes.

Further Chances and Defensive Actions

Martin Terrier tried in the 12th minute to score, which Zan‑Luk Leban deflected with his fingertips, and repeated the attempt in the 40th minute, also without success. Edmond Tapsoba headed the ball in the 15th minute, which Leban also saved. In the second half, Mark Flekken prevented an equaliser in the 42nd minute by blocking a shot at the left post.

Bundesliga Start for Bayer Leverkusen

In the Bundesliga, the Werkself has collected four points from three games after a mixed start to the season. The upcoming duel against RB Leipzig on Sunday at 15:30 offers the opportunity to consolidate the points earned and to boost the confidence from the Europa League defeat.