Leverkusen starts strong in the Europa League, while Milan falters

In front of around 28,000 fans at the BayArena, Bayer Leverkusen secured the opening of its Europa League group stage on Wednesday evening with a convincing home win against Slovenian champions NK Celje. After an own goal by Svit Seslar in the 15th minute, Facundo Medina made it 2-0 in the 74th minute.

Leverkusen dominate from the start

The own goal by Svit Seslar gave Leverkusen an immediate lead, which the team held until halftime. In the second half, Facundo Medina doubled the lead after a corner and secured the points. Defender Edmond Tapsoba started in defence and, together with his teammates, earned the first three points of the group.

Milan suffers setback against Benfica

At the same time, AC Milan had to endure a 0-2 (0-1) defeat at home against Benfica Lisbon. Dodi Lukebakio scored the first goal for the Portuguese side in the 16th minute, before Jakub Kaminski sealed the result. The Milanese were unable to find an equaliser and left without a home win.

NK Celje, the Slovenian champions, tried to get back into the game in both halves but were unable to convert any scoring chances. Despite several attacks, Leverkusen's lead remained until the final whistle.

With the win, Bayer Leverkusen start the group stage confidently, while AC Milan must go into the next matches with a setback. Both results provide early clues for the further development in the Europa League.