Bayer Leverkusen made a statement in their Champions League opener, securing a commanding 0-4 victory away to Feyenoord. All four goals came in the first half, with Florian Wirtz leading the charge, scoring twice and becoming the first German player to net a brace on his Champions League debut. It was also a memorable night for Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso, who also made his debut in the competition as a coach.
Missed you, @ChampionsLeague 😘 pic.twitter.com/ArPOUxXdwR
— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) September 20, 2024
Jeremie Frimpong played a key role in the win, providing two assists, a performance that Alonso praised after the game: “He’s a key player for us” the Spanish manager said, emphasizing Frimpong’s importance to the team. Alejandro Grimaldo, who celebrates his 29th birthday today, added another goal, and Feyenoord’s goalkeeper conceded an own goal to round out the scoring.
Xabi Alonso reflected on the match, saying, “It looks easy, but to do it is not at all, we were not lucky but efficient in the first minutes. We had a lot of composure. The first half was complete. But it’s never easy.”
For striker Victor Boniface, the match held special significance as he was another who made his Champions League debut. “From paying 30 naira to watch Champions League football to playing my first Champions League game. Pround of this moment.” Boniface said.
Leverkusen’s strong start in Europe sets the tone for what could be an exciting campaign, with standout performances from Wirtz, Grimaldo, and Frimpong helping Alonso’s side to a perfect beginning.