Bayer Leverkusen Book Their Place in the UEFA Europa League Semi-Finals

Unprecedented 44 Games Unbeaten

Bayer Leverkusen made it an unprecedented 44 games without loss as they booked their place in the UEFA Europa League semi-finals with a 3-0 win over West Ham United on Thursday.

First Leg Dominance

In the first leg, Bayer Leverkusen recorded 33 shots while West Ham had just one. However, it was the Hammers who took the lead in the second leg through Jarrod Bowen's early strike. But Leverkusen's dominance eventually told as Patrik Schick equalized before half-time and Moussa Diaby scored a stunning winner in the second half.

Moyes Insists West Ham Still in Tie

Despite the two late goals, West Ham manager David Moyes insisted that his side is still in the tie ahead of the second leg at the London Stadium next week. "We're still in the tie," Moyes said. "We've got a big game to come at home and we'll give it everything we've got."

New Signings Shine

Bayer Leverkusen's new signings, Florian Wirtz and Lucas Alario, both made significant contributions to the win. Wirtz set up Schick's goal, while Alario came off the bench to provide the assist for Diaby's winner.

Conclusion

Bayer Leverkusen's victory over West Ham is a testament to their resilience and quality. The German side has now extended their unbeaten run to 44 games, a remarkable achievement that has propelled them to the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League. West Ham, meanwhile, will need to produce a special performance in the second leg if they are to overcome the deficit and reach the last four.