Bayer Leverkusen defied the odds once again with a heart-stopping comeback victory over AS Roma, securing their place in the Europa League final in Dublin! This incredible win also sets a new European record: an astonishing 49 games unbeaten in all competitions!

Roma knew they needed a big win to overturn Leverkusen’s first-leg lead, and they started strong. Romelu Lukaku and Lorenzo Pellegrini threatened early, but Leverkusen goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky (playing in place of the injured Andrey Lunev) was equal to the task. At the other end, Adam Hložek nearly settled the tie, but a last-ditch challenge kept him out.

The first half took a dramatic turn when Jonathan Tah gave away a penalty for a clumsy tackle on Sardar Azmoun. The ever-reliable Leandro Paredes stepped up and converted from the spot, sending Roma into the lead and putting the pressure firmly on Leverkusen.

Leverkusen continued to fight after the break, but Roma almost doubled their lead through another penalty. This time, Hložek was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box, and Paredes coolly slotted home once again.

Just when it looked like Roma would force extra time, the game took another turn. Hložek’s corner found its way into the net via a fortunate deflection off Gianluca Mancini, giving Leverkusen a crucial away goal. Deflated, Roma struggled to respond.

Then, in injury time, pandemonium erupted! Josip Stanišić embarked on a thrilling solo run before firing the ball into the bottom corner, sending Leverkusen fans into a frenzy and completing a remarkable comeback.

This dramatic victory means Leverkusen will now face Atalanta in Dublin on May 22nd, with both teams vying for their first European trophy in decades. Despite the heartbreak, Roma’s Leandro Paredes was named Man of the Match for his two composed penalties.