Bayer Leverkusen secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Olympiacos in the UEFA Champions League knockout play-off first leg, thanks to a stunning four-minute brace from Patrik Schick that shifted the momentum of the match.
The encounter at the Karaiskakis Stadium began with high intensity as Olympiacos applied early pressure, backed by strong home support. The Greek side looked determined to build on their earlier performances and dominated possession during the opening stages.
Leverkusen faced significant defensive pressure in the first half, with Olympiacos creating multiple attacking opportunities. Goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis produced an important save to deny a long-range effort, while the home crowd briefly celebrated what appeared to be the opening goal before a VAR review ruled it out due to an offside infringement.
Despite Olympiacos maintaining attacking momentum early in the second half, the turning point arrived around the hour mark when Leverkusen launched a quick counterattack. Ernest Poku advanced down the left flank and delivered a precise pass to Patrik Schick, who calmly finished into the bottom corner to give the visitors the lead.
Just minutes later, Schick struck again, heading home from a well-delivered corner by Alex Grimaldo. The rapid double shifted control firmly in Leverkusen’s favor and silenced the home crowd.
Speaking after the match, Schick acknowledged the early pressure from Olympiacos but praised his team’s improvement in the second half and their ability to capitalize on key chances.
The result gives Bayer Leverkusen a strong advantage heading into the second leg as they aim to secure a place in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.
