Bayer Leverkusen successfully defeated AC Milan with a score of 1-0 in the matchday 2 League Phase of the 2024/2025 Champions League held at BayArena, Tuesday (1/10/2024).
Bayer Leverkusen’s only goal for victory over Milan was scored by Victor Boniface in the second half. Previously, Boniface had managed to break into Milan’s goal in the first half, but was disallowed by VAR.
Thanks to this result, Leverkusen again won full points and is now sitting at the top of the standings. On the other hand, Milan once again suffered a defeat and had to slump to the bottom of the table.
Leverkusen dominated the game from the start. A series of opportunities were created by Xabi Alonso’s team. However, there were still no goals that resulted.
In the 21st minute, Victor Boniface managed to break into Mike Maignan’s goal. However, this goal was finally disallowed by VAR because there was an offside first in the process. The score 0-0 lasted until halftime.
Back from the dressing room, Boniface finally scored a goal. Taking advantage of a rebound, the Nigerian striker poked the ball past Maignan.
Milan tried to catch up in the remaining time. Unfortunately, their efforts failed to produce a goal. The final score of 1-0 for Leverkusen’s victory was the final result of this match.
Florian Wirtz was named Man of the Match in Bayer Leverkusen’s 1-0 win over AC Milan.
UEFA panelists voted Wirtz Player of the Match despite not scoring or providing an assist.
“He was almost always the inspiration for Leverkusen’s attacking play,” was the UEFA panel’s assessment of Wirtz’s performance.
Overall, Wirtz recorded one shot, created four chances, touched the ball seven times in the opponent’s penalty box, sent the ball into the final third five times, and won four duels.
Alonso admitted the fatigue factor in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Bayern Munich had an effect on his side.
“I think it’s a good thing because German football is competitive. It’s also good news for us to get this result against Milan.
“The first 60 minutes we played well but eventually got tired after Bayern’s action started to have an impact.
“We showed spirit and character, these three points are very good. In the Champions League you have to know how to suffer and fight, not just play well,” said Alonso.
