Bayer Leverkusen took control of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final against West Ham United with two late goals at BayArena.
Substitutes Jonas Hofmann and Victor Boniface struck inside the final seven minutes to break the Hammers’ stubborn resistance.
Although they were on the back foot early on, West Ham created a brilliant opportunity in the 10th minute as Michail Antonio countered before squaring for Mohammed Kudus, whose tame first-time shot was straight at Matej Kovar.
At the other end, the visitors had Lukasz Fabianski to thank with the Hammers goalkeeper making smart saves to deny Alex Grimaldo, Patrik Schick and Edmond Tapsoba.
Leverkusen continued to threaten after the break with Fabianski making a superb reflex save to tip Schick’s header over in the 70th minute.
However, the Pole was unsighted and powerless seven minutes from time, when Hofmann’s volley flashed through the crowded six-yard box to break the deadlock.
Hofmann then turned provider in stoppage time with his inviting cross glanced home by Boniface to put Xabi Alonso’s side on top heading into next week’s second leg at the London Stadium.
More to follow…
More to follow.