Champions League Player Ratings | Feyenoord 0-4 Bayer Leverkusen
Bayer Leverkusen made a significant impact in their UEFA Champions League return, overpowering Feyenoord Rotterdam with a commanding 4-0 victory during their opening match. Xabi Alonso’s Bundesliga champions showcased their European pedigree against the Eredivisie runners-up.
Clinical performance in the first half
Leverkusen showcased a clinical approach early on in Rotterdam, as they swiftly capitalized on a mistake by Feyenoord’s Ramiz Zerrouki. Robert Andrich seized the opportunity, sending a precise pass to Florian Wirtz, who then scored with a stunning long-range effort on his Champions League debut. Despite this setback, Feyenoord posed a few challenges to Leverkusen’s defense. Notably, Zerrouki had a goal chalked off due to offside.
Dominance expands in the first half
The momentum shifted further in the 30th minute when Victor Boniface executed a clever dummy, passing to Jeremie Frimpong. The Dutch international displayed superb awareness by laying it off for Alejandro Grimaldo, who finished confidently. Shortly after, Frimpong turned into a provider again when he assisted Wirtz for his second goal. Just before the halftime whistle, Leverkusen found their fourth goal, as Edmond Tapsoba’s header deflected in off Timon Wellenreuther, effectively ending the half on a high note.
Quieter second half for Leverkusen
The second half saw a shift in dynamics, with Leverkusen allowing Feyenoord to dictate play. Although the hosts made attempts to get on the scoreboard, they failed to seriously threaten Lukas Hradecky or penetrate the organized Leverkusen defense. An effort from Ayase Ueda suffered the same fate as Zerrouki’s earlier attempt and was disallowed.
Player ratings
| Player | Rating |
|---|---|
| Lukas Hradecky | 6 |
| Edmond Tapsoba | 6 |
| Jonathan Tah | 6 |
| Piero Hincapié | 6 |
| Jeremie Frimpong | 7 |
| Robert Andrich | 6 |
| Granit Xhaka | 6 |
| Alejandro Grimaldo | 7 |
| Martin Terrier | 5 |
| Florian Wirtz | 7 |
| Victor Boniface | 6 |
Noteworthy performances
Florian Wirtz marked a memorable Champions League debut, scoring twice on the night, which underscored his central role in Leverkusen’s efficiency on offense. His ability to create chances for his teammates shone through as he led Leverkusen’s attacking efforts in this European club competition.
Alejandro Grimaldo’s performance was also commendable. Demonstrating impressive skill, he became a constant threat with his presence and effective set pieces, contributing to an own goal by the opponents. Jeremie Frimpong deserves recognition too for his influential play from the right flank, adding to Leverkusen’s attacking depth.
Xabi Alonso’s tactical approach in his Champions League coaching debut proved effective, as Bayer Leverkusen’s team dynamics and defensive strategy nullified Feyenoord’s attempts to break through.
This Champions League Matchday 1 highlights the potential of Bayer Leverkusen in this season’s European campaign, while Feyenoord Rotterdam will need to regroup and improve their performance in upcoming matches.
GGFN | Jack Meenan
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