Krumm's own goal and coach swap shape Leverkusen's Europa League start

An own goal by Krumm marked the start of Bayer Leverkusen's Europa League appearance against NK Celje, which the Werkself won 2:0. Despite numerous missed chances, coach Carles Martinez showed that a stormy start to the season and a fresh Celje coach shaped the game and the dynamics of both teams.

The Werkself has started the season unevenly, which is why Carles Martinez and his staff were looking for a convincing Europa League start. In UEFA's info ticker the duel against NK Celje was presented as an important opportunity for the team. All group matches were followed closely, but despite many missed chances the game remained controllable for the Bayerians.

New Coach at Celje

Only at the beginning of the week NK Celje changed the coach. The new coach Zoran Zeljkovic set up his team tactically well, so the visitors from Leverkusen were already under pressure in the first half. His influence became evident when the Slovenians became dangerous despite defensive weaknesses.

Early Chances and First Actions

Bayer Leverkusen pressed immediately after the kickoff. Moussa Diaby already tried after about 30 seconds with a volley control to finish, but his shot was blocked. Shortly afterwards Celje earned a corner, while Janis Blaswich's goal was not threatened.

Celje's Goalkeeper in Defense

Celje's keeper Leban had to intervene several times. After a shot from Terrier from about 20 metres he deflected the ball with his fingertips onto the right post. Three minutes later he saved a header from Aleix García with his fists. On the following corner he made a spectacular save, although a teammate unintentionally sent the ball to the opponent.

Half-time and Missed Opportunities

Just before the break a cross came in, from which Armandas Kucys headed from eight metres, but Flekken parried the finish. After the side change Leverkusen remained inaccurate; Medina missed a short-range chance, and Yaya Dukuly shot from 18 metres over the goal. The chances went unused, although the team dominated the game.

Decisive Goal and Finish

In the 74th minute Moreira took a shot from 23 metres, which Leban only barely deflected onto the crossbar. The subsequent corner led to Facundo Medina's volley, which sealed the 2:0. Kofane then had two more good chances, but missed both.

Robert Andrich commented after the match: “Often run after the ball.” Simon Rolfes added: “Team can step up.” Despite the unspectacular result, it remains to be seen what tailwind the Werkself can draw from this victory for the upcoming Europa League tasks.