Leverkusen on Course for Treble Following 2-0 Victory Over West Ham

Leverkusen, still in contention for a remarkable treble of the Bundesliga, Europa League, and DFB-Pokal titles, displayed dominance throughout their Europa League quarter-final clash against West Ham. Despite needing two late goals, both from substitutes, to secure victory, they showcased control over the game.

Early on, Alejandro Grimaldo's powerful strike from distance was met with a remarkable save from Lukasz Fabianski, denying Leverkusen an early breakthrough. Shortly after, West Ham suffered a setback as Lucas Paqueta received a yellow card for a reckless challenge, resulting in his suspension for the second leg.

Fabianski continued his heroics with another outstanding save, denying Patrik Schick's attempt before halftime. Despite the even scoreline at the break, Leverkusen maintained their offensive pressure.

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In the second half, Fabianski's brilliance thwarted Leverkusen's chances, but their persistence paid off. Substitute Jonas Hofmann capitalized on a blocked shot from a corner, volleying the ball into the net, with Fabianski's view obstructed.

Another substitute, Victor Boniface, sealed the victory with a late header from a corner, keeping Leverkusen's treble dreams alive. The Hammers now face an uphill battle in the return leg.

Manager Xabi Alonso's tactical substitutions proved pivotal, with both Hofmann and Boniface making immediate impacts on the scoreline. Leverkusen's dominance warranted their 2-0 triumph, with Fabianski preventing a more significant margin of victory.

Paqueta's reckless challenge resulted in his suspension for the next leg, leaving West Ham without a key playmaker. Manager David Moyes faces a challenge in replacing Paqueta's creativity for the crucial match.

Ahead of the return leg, West Ham faces Fulham in a London derby, while Leverkusen takes on Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga, setting the stage for an intense week of football.

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