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Bayer Leverkusen Outclass West Ham United In Europa League Quarterfinal First Leg
Bayer Leverkusen put on a dominant display as they defeated West Ham United 2-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final clash at the BayArena.
The German side showed patience and precision to break down a stubborn Hammers defense and take a significant advantage heading into the second leg.
Xabi Alonso’s team controlled possession from the start and created several scoring opportunities, with Lukasz Fabianski making key saves to keep West Ham in the game. Despite the Hammers’ resolute defending and occasional threats on the counter-attack, Leverkusen remained persistent in their pursuit of goals.
The match saw moments of controversy, including a yellow card for Lucas Paquetá and Emerson Palmieri, both of whom will be suspended for the next leg. However, Die Werkself eventually made their breakthrough in the 83rd minute, when Jonas Hofmann finished after Kurt Zouma had blocked an effort from his fellow substitute Victor Boniface.
Victor Boniface then scored a header of his own from Hofmann’s pinpoint cross to double their lead as Leverkusen continued the record of winning each of their home Europe league matches this season. The result leaves West Ham with a challenging task in the return leg at the London Stadium.
Before the crucial second leg at the London Stadium next Thursday, where West Ham faces an uphill battle, they will first take on Marco Silva’s Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday.
Bayer Leverkusen, who are currently on a seven-game winning streak and remain unbeaten, have the opportunity to secure the Bundesliga title with a victory against Werder Bremen on Sunday.
