Benfica 0-1 Bayer Leverkusen: Schick clinches visitors' first Champions League victory
Kasper Hjulmand earned his first Champions League win as Bayer Leverkusen manager, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Benfica at the Estadio da Luz. Patrik Schick’s second-half header was the decisive goal, delivering Leverkusen their first Champions League win of the season.
Match Overview
The game was closely contested throughout, with both teams showing competitive spirit. Leverkusen recovered from their heavy 7-2 defeat by Paris Saint-Germain in their previous match, thanks to Schick’s crucial goal as a substitute.
Key Moments
- Benfica started strongly, with Dodi Lukebakio hitting the post in the 11th minute with a delicate chip.
- Lukebakio kept troubling Leverkusen’s defense, forcing goalkeeper Mark Flekken into several routine saves.
- Nicolas Otamendi’s looping header hit the crossbar, preventing Benfica from taking the lead.
- Before halftime, Vangelis Pavlidis’ low shot was deflected just over the bar by Loic Bade.
Decisive Goal
Schick was introduced in the 57th minute and found the net in the 65th. After Anatoliy Trubin parried his shot, teammate Arthur applied pressure to recover the ball, allowing Schick to lob a precise header over the stranded goalkeeper.
Late Efforts
Lukebakio attempted to equalize in the closing stages but was repeatedly denied by Flekken, who controlled all of the Belgian’s efforts, ensuring the victory for Leverkusen.
“Patrik Schick’s second-half header secured Bayer Leverkusen’s first win in the Champions League this season.”
Benfica remains without a win in this season’s Champions League campaign after their latest missed opportunities.
Summary: Schick’s pivotal second-half goal earned Bayer Leverkusen their first Champions League win of the season, overcoming a resilient Benfica side at home.