89’ – Goal! Arsenal levels

Kai Havertz converts the penalty with a left-footed shot to the bottom left corner, and Arsenal equalizes in the final minutes. Following Malik Tillman’s foul in the box, the Gunners secure an important point in Germany.

Score: Bayer Leverkusen 1-1 Arsenal

46’ – Goal! Bayer Leverkusen takes the lead

Robert Andrich puts Bayer 04 Leverkusen ahead with a header from the left side of the six-yard box following a well-taken corner kick. What a start to the second half for the home side, catching Arsenal off guard!

Score: Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 Arsenal

Bayer Leverkusen and Arsenal kick off a high-stakes Champions League tie

The UEFA Champions League starts with one of the most captivating Round of 16 matchups. From the BayArena, Bayer Leverkusen will host Arsenal in the first leg of a tie that promises intensity, goals, and tactical battles.

The German side will try to leverage the home advantage to take an early lead ahead of the return match in London. The atmosphere in Leverkusen is electric, with thousands of fans ready to push their team against one of the most in-form clubs in Europe.

On the other side, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal arrives with tremendous confidence after dominating the group stage. The Gunners not only advanced as leaders but did so almost flawlessly, raising expectations across Europe.

Arsenal arrives as one of the top Champions League title contenders

Arsenal lands in Germany with stats that explain why many consider them favorites to lift the Champions League this season.

Arteta’s team had a perfect group stage:

• 8 wins in 8 matches
• 23 goals scored
• Only 4 goals conceded

This dominance included victories over elite European sides, proving the Gunners are no longer just contenders—they are genuine title challengers.

Arsenal’s tactical setup has been key: the defense led by William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães provides solidity, while midfielders Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi control the game’s rhythm.

In attack, the speed and creativity of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli have been a nightmare for any defense. Saka, in particular, stands out as one of the most decisive players in the tournament due to his ability to generate goals and assists.

A Leverkusen side relying on home strength

Bayer Leverkusen’s path to the Round of 16 has been more challenging, but that unpredictability makes them dangerous.

The team, managed by Kasper Hjulmand, finished the group stage with mixed results and had to navigate the playoff round to secure their place. They advanced past Olympiacos thanks to a decisive 2-0 first-leg victory, which proved crucial.

Throughout the tournament, Leverkusen has shown two faces: moments of brilliance where they compete with Europe’s giants, but also heavy defeats highlighting defensive vulnerabilities.

However, the BayArena tells a different story. The German side remains difficult to break down at home, where their defensive stats are solid and their play aggressive.

Key player battles could decide the tie

Beyond tactics, individual matchups may determine the outcome.

For Leverkusen, C. Kofane stands out, a forward known for his efficiency in finishing and ability to exploit spaces in the box.

For Arsenal, attention turns again to Bukayo Saka, who has been one of the team’s most decisive players this season. His speed, vision, and precise passing make him a critical weapon.

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