November 10, (THEWILL) – Bayer Leverkusen edged past Qarabag 1-0 to progress to the next round of the Europa League, thanks to a last-minute penalty by Super Eagles striker, Victor Boniface.
The Bundesliga side travelled to Azerbaijan for the crunch clash on Thursday evening, knowing a win would seal their spot in the knockout stages. Xabi Alonso’s in-form team went into the game on a 10-match winning streak but struggled to break down a resilient Qarabag.
The first half finished goalless before Boniface spurned a great chance to open the scoring early in the second period, firing wide when well-placed. The Nigerian forward had another headed effort saved as the game entered its final ten minutes still locked at 0-0.
However, Leverkusen were awarded a penalty in the 89th minute and Boniface calmly converted from the spot to snatch a dramatic 1-0 victory. The win ensures the Germans top Group G while handing Qarabag elimination.
Boniface, who now has three Europa League goals this season, was the matchwinner for Leverkusen once again. The Super Eagles striker has been in fantastic form and proved the difference with his late penalty.
Leverkusen will be delighted to progress but made hard work of beating their Azerbaijani opponents. Boniface’s last-gasp spot-kick broke Qarabag’s stubborn resistance as the Bundesliga side squeezed through to the next round.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
