Medina secures Bayer Leverkusen's first Europa League home win

On 16 September 2026 Bayer Leverkusen kicked off the Europa League with a home win at the BayArena. Under new coach Carles Martínez, the Werkself secured a 2-0 victory over Slovenian champions NK Celje, with an own goal and a strike from Facundo Medina deciding the result.

First appearance under Carles Martínez

Martínez made six changes at once compared to the 2-2 draw in Augsburg, including the return of former captain Robert Andrich to the starting eleven. The ill Ibrahim Maza was absent, as was top signing Guela Doué, who withdrew shortly before kickoff with a calf injury. The team wore a black special kit bearing the crest of TSV Bayer 04 Leverkusen, recalling the sole UEFA Cup title from 1988.

Medina decides and outlook

In the 15th minute, Svit Seslar scored an own goal after a failed clearance by Aleix Garcia, putting the Werkself in the lead. Zan‑Luk Leban, Celje's goalkeeper, had to intervene again after the own goal but could not prevent an equaliser. Despite numerous chances, the precision of the Leverkusen side was lacking.

Facundo Medina capitalised in the 74th minute with a precise cross from Aleix Garcia and struck the ball with the inside of his foot for 2-0. Shortly before half‑time, Mark Flekken redirected a header past the left post, almost bringing the visitors level. Medina had already scored in the Bundesliga home‑opening phase, underscoring his attacking prowess.

The market‑value analysis lists S. Seslar at €2.20 million, M. Flekken at €6.00 million and F. Medina at €18.00 million. These figures illustrate the financial framework within which Bayer Leverkusen makes its squad decisions.

In the Bayer forum fans discussed the match intensively, with community posts covering not only gaming references but also support questions about premium‑service options and video highlights. Transfers and further news are compiled in the premium‑service section, ensuring interested parties receive up‑to‑date information. The latest‑transfers column and all‑news feeds provided additional details for readers.

Leverkusen will face Lech Poznań on 15 October in the second league phase, another testing ground for Martínez to consolidate the form from the opening match. The game is expected to be played again at the BayArena, where fans already have high expectations.