A dramatic last-gasp own goal handed Bayer Leverkusen a hard-fought 2-2 draw in their UEFA Champions League debut against Copenhagen, ensuring a share of the points in a thrilling encounter at Parken Stadium.

Match Highlights

The Danish hosts appeared to have secured a crucial victory when substitute Robert Silva equalized in the 86th minute, heading home unopposed from six yards out. However, Leverkusen’s resilience shone through as Pantelis Hatzidiakos inadvertently scored in the 91st minute, canceling out the lead and leaving both teams with a point.

Copenhagen struck first in the ninth minute through Jordan Larsson, the son of former Celtic and Barcelona star Henrik Larsson, who capitalized on a precise cross from Elias Achouri with a composed half-volley. Leverkusen responded in the 82nd minute with a stunning free-kick from Alex Grimaldo, a 25-yard effort that curled over the wall and into the top corner.

Managerial Changes and Team Dynamics

For Leverkusen, the result marks a mixed start under new manager Kasper Hjulmand, who took charge after the club’s controversial dismissal of Erik ten Hag in early September. Hjulmand, previously Denmark’s national team coach from 2020 to 2024, guided Leverkusen to a 3-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in his debut but faced challenges against Copenhagen.

Despite the draw, Hjulmand praised his team’s tenacity, noting their ability to recover from deficits twice during the match. The German side, featuring former Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken and ex-Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah, will look to build momentum in their next group clash against PSV Eindhoven on 1 October.

Copenhagen’s European Struggles

Copenhagen, meanwhile, continue their turbulent European campaign, having exited competitions against English clubs in the past two seasons. They fell to Manchester City 6-2 in the 2023-24 Champions League and lost 3-1 to Chelsea in the Conference League last year. Their upcoming fixture against Qarabag in Azerbaijan on 1 October will test their resolve further.

  • Key Players: Jordan Larsson (Copenhagen), Alex Grimaldo (Leverkusen), Pantelis Hatzidiakos (Copenhagen).
  • Managerial Context: Kasper Hjulmand’s appointment follows Erik ten Hag’s sacking after just two Bundesliga games.
  • Next Fixtures: Leverkusen vs. PSV Eindhoven (1 October), Copenhagen vs. Qarabag (1 October).

 

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#Bayer Leverkusen #European Football #UEFA Champions League #Copenhagen FC #Kasper Hjulmand