Jose Mourinho admits that it was difficult for AS Roma to beat Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of the 2022-2023 Europa League semi finals
AS Roma managed to achieve positive results after defeating Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of the 2022-2023 Europa League semi finals. After the match, Jose Mourinho as coach of the Giallorossi -nicknamed AS Roma, admitted that the match against Bayer Leverkusen was not an easy thing.
AS Roma hosted Bayer Leverkusen at the Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy, on Friday (12/5/2023). The Giallorossi won with a narrow score of 1-0 via Edoardo Bove’s goal (63′).
Despite winning, Jose Mourinho considers the match against Bayer Leverkusen not easy. Mourinho also threw sky-high praise to Xabi Alonso’s team.
“It was not an easy match. It was difficult strategically because Leverkusen are a very tough team and it is difficult to stay focused for 90 minutes,” said Jose Mourinho in a post-match press conference, reported by ANTARA, Friday (12/5/2023).
Furthermore, Jose Mourinho said AS Roma’s steps in the 2022-2023 Europa League depended on the Giallorossi players on the field. The former Chelsea coach said that Paulo Dybala and colleagues have a high mentality and responsibility.
“It depends on the players. They have mentality, desire, and empathy. They have a sense of responsibility that makes them want to give everything to make the fans happy.”
AS Roma also has a big chance to qualify for the 2022-2023 Europa League final thanks to the victory in the first leg over Bayer Leverkusen. However, it is illegal for the Giallorossi to underestimate Werkself – the nickname of Bayer Leverkusen.
Moreover, AS Roma will play the second leg at the Bayer Leverkusen headquarters. The second leg of the 2022-2023 Europa League semifinals between AS Roma and Bayer Leverkusen will be presented at the BayArena Stadium, Germany, on Friday (19/5/2023).
