Leverkusen suffered a 2-0 defeat away to Olympiacos in the Champions League, failing to impose their usual style of play on the road. After the match, midfielder Ibrahim Maza offered insight into the tactical problems the team faced and stressed the need for clear improvement ahead of the next European fixture against Villarreal.
Leverkusen went into the match with a plan to make late runs in behind, based on analysis suggesting space behind Olympiacos. However, Maza said the team was unable to execute that plan consistently against a disciplined opponent.
Progressing the ball through central areas was another issue. “We didn’t always manage to get through the middle well and then had to resort to long balls,” Maza said. “But that meant they regained possession quicker, and then we couldn’t play our game.”
With Olympiacos winning second balls and disrupting Leverkusen’s rhythm, the German side struggled to build sustained pressure and ultimately suffered a deserved defeat.
Looking ahead, Maza said Leverkusen must raise their level in the next match. “Next week against Villarreal, we have to act better and with more security,” he stated. “Of course, we want to win.”
Leverkusen will need a quick response, requiring a more controlled and composed performance to get back on track in Europe.
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