Youth League: Bayer Leverkusen Reach Quarter-Finals After Victory Over Monaco
Youngsters Shine as Bayer Leverkusen Secure Impressive Win
Bayer Leverkusen's Under-19s side have secured a place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Youth League after defeating Monaco 3-1 in the last 16. The German outfit produced a dominant performance to overcome their French opponents and book their place in the next round of the competition.
Impressive First-Half Display
Leverkusen started the game brightly and took the lead in the 15th minute through a stunning strike from Iker Bravo. The Spanish forward received the ball on the edge of the area and unleashed a powerful shot that flew into the top corner.
The young Germans continued to press and doubled their advantage just before the half-hour mark. A flowing move involving several players ended with Karim Bellarabi slotting home from close range.
Monaco Fight Back but Leverkusen Hold Firm
Monaco showed resilience in the second half and pulled a goal back through Maghnes Akliouche in the 55th minute. The French side pressed for an equalizer but Leverkusen's defense held firm.
The German side sealed the victory in the 75th minute as Zidan Sertdemir scored a superb individual goal. The Turkish midfielder picked up the ball in his own half and drove forward before unleashing a powerful shot that found the bottom corner.
Quarter-Final Draw to Take Place
Bayer Leverkusen will now await the quarter-final draw, which will take place on Friday, March 17. The German side will be hoping for a favorable draw as they look to continue their impressive run in the competition.