Bruno Onyemaechi’s Olympiacos face a tough task as they chase a historic comeback against Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League knockout playoff second leg in Germany on Tuesday. Olympiacos were beaten 2–0 at home in the first leg in Piraeus, leaving them requiring a two goal win to force extra time or a three goal victory to seal a dramatic qualification to the Round of 16.
In the first match, Leverkusen took control through a quickfire double from Patrik Schick midway through the second half goals that now give the Bundesliga side the advantage heading into the return fixture. Onyemaechi was introduced as a substitute in that game as Olympiacos searched for a late response without success.
Despite the deficit, the Greek champions arrive in Germany with belief rooted in their strong away form this season, having recorded multiple wins on the road across competitions. But overcoming a two-goal margin against a side that has been formidable at home with few losses at the BayArena will require one of the club’s most memorable European performances.
What’s at Stake & Likely Scenarios
- If Olympiacos win by exactly two goals, the tie will go to extra time (and potentially penalties) due to aggregate scoring.
- A three-goal or more victory would see the Greeks through on aggregate to the Champions League Round of 16 a rare and historic feat for the club at this stage.
- Leverkusen’s 2–0 first-leg lead coming on the back of historic away efficiency in the knockout rounds gives them a strong position and confidence.
Editorial
This matchup pits a resilient Olympiacos side anchored by players like Onyemaechi against a Leverkusen team that has demonstrated clinical efficiency in Europe’s elite competition. Overcoming a two-goal deficit away from home is rare but not impossible, and Greek supporters will hope their club can tap into its impressive away record to produce an upset. For Onyemaechi himself, it’s a chance to make his mark on Europe’s biggest stage, potentially with his first Champions League start.
For Leverkusen, coach Kasper Hjulmand has emphasised the importance of avoiding complacency despite holding the advantage, underlining how seriously the German outfit is treating the tie. Their task will be to control the match and leverage home support to fend off Olympiacos’ comeback hopes.
Did You Know?
- Olympiacos lost the first leg 2–0 to Bayer Leverkusen in their Champions League playoff tie.
- Both goals in that match were scored by Patrik Schick in a quick double.
- The Greek club must win by at least two goals in Germany to push the tie into extra time.[turn0search7])
- A three-goal win or more would see Olympiacos reach the Champions League Round of 16.
- Onyemaechi has featured several times this season but is still awaiting his first Champions League start.
