Bayer 04 Leverkusen secured a place in the Champions League knockout stage after a goalless draw in the second leg against Olympiacos Piraeus. Although the 0-0 result was enough for advancement, the style displayed by the German champions sparked a wave of criticism among experts and the players themselves. The match at the BayArena lacked excitement, prompting the media to label it a "boring formality." The joy of success is marred by an injury to a key player, Maza.

Advancement despite no goals

A 0-0 draw with Olympiacos was enough for Bayer to reach the Champions League last 16 thanks to the result of the first leg.

Wave of criticism for style

Experts and media harshly assessed the spectacle's level, calling Leverkusen's play boring and lacking offensive ambition.

Concern over Maza's health

Maza's injury during the match is a significant weakening for the team ahead of the crucial knockout phase of the season.

Bayer 04 Leverkusen, commonly known as Werkself, sealed its place in Europe's top sixteen, but the circumstances of this success leave much to be desired. A goalless draw at home against Greek side Olympiacos Piraeus was enough to progress, but it was met with an exceptionally cold reception. German media did not mince words, calling the match "a big piece of shit" and pointing to a lack of commitment and creativity in attack. Even within the home camp, the atmosphere was far from euphoric; players reportedly reached for so-called "frustration beer" immediately after the match to vent their frustration over the poor performance. The situation is further complicated by an injury to Maza, who had to leave the pitch prematurely. The player's condition is a serious concern for the coaching staff, as the upcoming knockout phase will require full availability of the team's key players. In the context of the last-16 draw, one thought dominates in Leverkusen: avoiding a confrontation with Bayern Munich. The prospect of facing the same domestic rival multiple times in a short period is seen as a highly undesirable scenario. Club representatives are openly talking about the need for a "complete turnaround" in the level of play to meet the demands of the knockout stage. Bayer Leverkusen made football history particularly in 2002, when it reached the Champions League final, losing to Real Madrid after a brilliant volley by Zinedine Zidane. That season earned them the nickname "Neverkusen," which they only shed during the tenure of Xabi Alonso. The team's current form has become the subject of debate among TV pundits, who criticize the German champions for losing the spark from the previous season. Although the defense performed adequately, keeping a clean sheet, the lack of goals in a home match against a lower-ranked opponent is a warning sign. Fans hope the negative comments will motivate the team and that the knockout stage, which traditionally unleashes extra reserves of energy, will show the true face of Alonso's team. In addition to Bayer, English side Newcastle also celebrated advancement that same evening, completing the picture of Tuesday's battles in the world's most prestigious club competition.

Mentioned People

  • Xabi Alonso — Manager of Bayer Leverkusen, who led the team to the knockout stage despite criticism for the style of the last match.