Struggling 2-2 Score Following Denmark Coach Hjulmand's Resignation
Bayer Leverkusen Draw 2-2 Against FC Copenhagen in Champions League Opener
Bayer Leverkusen started their Champions League campaign with a draw against FC Copenhagen, a result that left new head coach Kasper Hjulmand wanting more. The game, played at the Telia Parken in Copenhagen, saw both teams displaying determination and effort, but ultimately failing to secure a win.
The match began with an early goal for FC Copenhagen, scored by Jordan Larsson in the 9th minute. The goal was a result of a defensive lapse by Leverkusen, with Edmond Tapsoba allowing Larsson to run free.
Hjulmand, making his Champions League comeback as a coach after 13 years, tried to give Leverkusen structure and order, particularly in the defensive midfield. However, the team struggled to find their rhythm, with captain Robert Andrich losing many balls and pairing poorly with Fernández.
Leverkusen managed to rally and push for the equalizer in the second half. Their efforts paid off when Alejandro Grimaldo scored a goal for FC Copenhagen in the 82nd minute, only for Pantelis Hatzidiakos to score an own goal in the 90.+2 minute, equalizing the score.
The current Leverkusen team, trying to build a new title-winning football team, has little in common with the formidable side that won the double last year. Simon Rolfes, the former Leverkusen player, admitted before the game that the massive turnover in the summer would make it difficult for Leverkusen to reach their maximum this season.
FC Copenhagen, on the other hand, offered little more than effort and will. Youssoufa Moukoko almost scored the 2-0 for FC Copenhagen just before halftime, but was denied by Mark Flekken. The goalkeeper expressed his dissatisfaction with the point earned. Robert Silva scored a second goal for FC Copenhagen in the 86th minute, setting off a bizarre final phase where both teams scored again.
Captain Robert Andrich admitted that Bayer Leverkusen left with mixed feelings. Leverkusen didn't improve much after the break, even with Aleix Garcia in the double pivot. Grimaldo scored his second free-kick goal of the season, contributing to the bizarre final phase of the game.
Kasper Hjulmand, who previously trained the Danish national football team, will be looking to guide Leverkusen to better results in their upcoming Champions League matches. The team will need to address their defensive issues and find consistency if they are to challenge for the title.
