Impressive Display In Rome

Bayer Leverkusen marches on in Europa League after away win

Impressive display in Rome

Bayer Leverkusen continued their impressive Europa League campaign with a 2-0 victory over AS Roma in the first leg of their semi-final clash on Thursday.

The German side, who are unbeaten in the competition this season, took the lead in the 22nd minute through Moussa Diaby, who finished off a fine team move. Piero Hincapie doubled the advantage just before the hour mark with a header from a corner.

Roma, who were without injured talisman Paulo Dybala, struggled to create clear-cut chances and will need to produce a much-improved performance in the second leg at the BayArena next Thursday if they are to reach the final.

Leverkusen in control

Leverkusen were the better side throughout the match and their victory was fully deserved. They controlled possession and created the better chances, with Roma goalkeeper Rui Patricio making a number of saves to keep the score down.

Diaby was a constant threat down the left flank for Leverkusen and he was unlucky not to score more than once. Hincapie was also impressive at the back, marshalling the defence and scoring the crucial second goal.

Roma will need to improve significantly in the second leg if they are to have any chance of reaching the final. They were second best in all areas of the pitch and will need to find a way to create more chances and be more clinical in front of goal.