Bayer Leverkusen, under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, are set to face AS Roma in a highly anticipated Europa League semi-final clash. Leverkusen’s remarkable 46-match unbeaten streak, which includes clinching their first-ever Bundesliga title, has positioned them as favorites to advance to the final in Dublin. The German side is driven by a desire for retribution after last season’s narrow defeat to Roma, which ultimately led to a heart-wrenching penalty shoot-out loss in the final against Sevilla.

Leverkusen’s knack for dramatic late goals has been a defining feature of their campaign, with the team scoring 16 stoppage-time goals across all competitions this season. This resilience was on full display in their recent 2-2 draw with Stuttgart, where Robert Andrich’s 96th-minute equalizer salvaged a crucial point. Alonso’s ambition is clear: to maintain their undefeated record until the season’s end.

Roma, led by Daniele De Rossi, have had a tumultuous journey to the semi-finals, including a victory over AC Milan in the quarter-finals. Despite a demanding schedule and the pressure of securing a Champions League spot for next season, De Rossi’s Roma have shown they can rise to the occasion. The return of key players Romelu Lukaku and Paulo Dybala from injury will bolster their attack as they prepare to challenge Leverkusen’s unbeaten record.

De Rossi acknowledges the challenge ahead, stating that perfection is required to overcome a team like Leverkusen, which has consistently demonstrated the ability to find the back of the net in the dying moments of the game. As both teams gear up for the semi-final, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter where Leverkusen seeks redemption, and Roma aims to prove that while their opponents may be unbeaten, they are not unbeatable.