Bayer Leverkusen secured their first victory of the Europa League campaign, defeating NK Celje 2-0 on matchday one. Throughout the first half, Leverkusen controlled much of the action and generated several clear scoring opportunities. However, the opening goal arrived in the 15th minute through a fortunate error by the opposition; Svit Seslar accidentally guided an assist from Aleix Garcia into his own net.
Leverkusen remained a potent offensive force afterward, but they struggled to extend their lead early on. Celje also found moments of quality, yet goalkeeper Mark Flekken managed to hold off any potential equalizer. In the second half, the team from Leverkusen kept up the pressure, utilizing further chances until Facundo Medina scored the decisive goal in the 74th minute, striking home after a corner kick to make the score 2-0.
Leverkusen managed the final phase of the game with control, successfully protecting their lead and seeing out the match without conceding again. While Celje made a few attempts on goal, they were unable to seriously threaten the Leverkusen defense.
