Bayer Leverkusen earned a statement Champions League victory at the Etihad Stadium, defeating Manchester City 2–0 thanks to a brilliant performance from Alejandro Grimaldo. The Bundesliga side showed discipline, efficiency, and tactical intelligence to hand Pep Guardiola’s team a rare home defeat in Europe.

First Half: Leverkusen Strike First

City dominated early possession as expected, but it was Leverkusen who produced the breakthrough.
23’ — Alejandro Grimaldo finished off a smart move assisted by C. M. Kofane, giving the visitors a 1–0 lead and silencing the Etihad.

Despite several attempts from City to respond, Leverkusen’s defensive structure held firm. The German side went into the break with their advantage intact.

Second Half: City Changes, Leverkusen Punish

Pep Guardiola made a triple substitution at halftime — Foden, Doku, and O’Reilly all introduced — in a bid to swing momentum. But Leverkusen remained disciplined and lethal on the counter.

54’ — Patrik Schick, assisted by I. Maza, doubled the visitors’ lead with a clinical finish, putting significant pressure on City’s hopes of a comeback.

City brought on Haaland and Cherki at 65’, but Leverkusen continued to frustrate them with solid defensive work and clever game management.

Grimaldo picked up a booking at 60’, while Kofane was also cautioned later in the match.
Leverkusen sealed off the match with another tactical change as N. Tella replaced Kofane in the 82nd minute.

Full-Time: A Famous Victory

Manchester City struggled to convert possession into real danger, while Leverkusen executed their game plan with precision.
Grimaldo — with a goal and a commanding overall display — was the standout performer.

Final Score: Manchester City 0–2 Bayer Leverkusen
(Grimaldo 23’, Schick 54’)