The Europa League quarterfinals concluded on Thursday as four teams booked spots in the semifinals. Liverpool, the tournament’s favorite, could not conquer Atalanta after the stunning 3-0 defeat at Anfield one week ago. Roma, which has been flying under Daniele de Rossi, defeated Milan in both legs.
The much-anticipated fixture between Bayer Leverkusen and West Ham had ample drama. However, a late goal from Jeremie Frimpong assured Leverkusen of a spot. In doing so, he protected the German side’s season-long unbeaten run. Finally, Marseille and Benfica required penalties to decide which team would advance to the semifinals. In the end, Marseille’s goalkeeper made two saves to send the French side through.
Even though the semifinals are not for two weeks, the anticipation is clear. Here is how each of the four teams reached this stage of the Europa League.
Recapping the Europa League quarterfinals
Leverkusen draws level late to get past West Ham
After winning 2-0 in the first leg, anything short of a collapse would have been enough for Xabi Alonso’s side. Yet, there was an essence of continuity that the German side wanted to keep up with. Bayer Leverkusen has not lost this season in any competition. The Bundesliga champions for 2023/24 have the chance for a treble, but no club has gone an entire season unbeaten.
That record was tested early. West Ham opened an early lead via Michail Antonio after 13 minutes. That forced Alonso into an early change in defense in the first half and a further two substitutions at halftime. They worked wonders, as West Ham was limited with chances. Jarrod Bowen nearly scored to level the tie, but his shot from a tight angle went begging across the face of goal.
Jeremie Frimpong, one of the halftime substitutes, locked up a spot in the semifinals of the Europa League . He also protected the unbeaten streak for Leverkusen. That is now 44 games without a defeat in all competitions.
Liverpool’s…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/leverkusen-stays-unbeaten-liverpool-exits-europa-league/
Author : Kyle Fansler
Publish date : 2024-04-18 22:32:04
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