BERLIN, May 18 (silubaba) -- In a fervent display of defence, AS Roma sustained a 0-0 draw against Bayer Leverkusen in the second leg on Thursday, set up a Europa League final clash against Sevilla after a 1-0 aggregate win.
Leverkusen charged into the game with high spirits and a clear mission: net a single goal to push Mourinho's men into extra time. The intent was evident when, just nine minutes in, Kerem Demirbay tested Roma's seasoned goalkeeper Rui Patricio with a challenging attempt. The pressure mounted when Moussa Diaby's shot from the box's edge thudded against the crossbar just three minutes later.
Hailing from Italy, the visitors hunkered down, demonstrating a steadfast defensive strategy with all players committed to blocking Leverkusen's advances. Yet, Leverkusen found paths through Roma's formidable defence. Patricio had to spring into action to deflect another determined strike from Demirbay, while Sardar Azmoun narrowly missed the goal with a header at the half-hour mark.
As the second half commenced, Roma flickered offensively. Leverkusen's stalwart defender Jonathan Tah had to intervene, clearing a potentially devastating free-kick from Lorenzo Pellegrini in the 58th minute. Leverkusen continued to control the game, but a 25-meter shot from Demirbay failed to breach Patricio's defences in the 67th minute.
In the face of Leverkusen's frantic quest for the aggregate equaliser, Roma's defence remained impenetrable. Their determined stand enabled them to secure their position in a European final for the second year in succession.
With this result, Roma now prepare to meet Sevilla, the Spanish football powerhouse, in the Europa League final in Budapest on May 31.
"We couldn't find that one critical goal. It's unfortunate and stings a bit. But, I'm still extremely proud of the team and the club. The atmosphere was absolutely electric. Everyone put in tremendous effort," reflected Leverkusen midfielder Demirbay. ■
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