Bayer Leverkusen Beats Feyenoord 4-0 in Champions League Opener

Bayer Leverkusen achieved a commanding 4-0 victory over Feyenoord in their Champions League opener, with head coach Xabi Alonso acknowledging that the win was not as easy as it appeared. Florian Wirtz scored twice, complemented by a goal from Alex Grimaldo and an own goal from Timon Wellenreuther, leading to a historical first-half performance, where Leverkusen became the first away team to lead by four goals at halftime in the Champions League since 2022. Alonso praised his team's efficiency but emphasized the need for control and flexibility, noting that they had to overcome early pressure from Feyenoord. The victory equaled Leverkusen's largest win in the Champions League and marked their biggest away win in European competitions since 2021. Feyenoord's coach Brian Priske reflected on the defeat, admitting that it highlighted their current struggles to compete at the Champions League level, while still recognizing his players' efforts in the second half. Leverkusen will next face Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga, aiming to maintain their momentum after such a significant European win.