What regrets! Victorious (3-2) in the first leg a week ago after being led, Monaco failed this Thursday evening to maintain their lead. Pushed on penalties after a defeat (2-3) at the end of extra time by Leverkusen, they were eliminated (3-5 on pens) in the round of 16 of the Europa League.
The Monegasques have the advantage of the field, but it is nevertheless the Germans who find the opening by Wirtz from the 13th minute on a handball from Nübel. Substitute in the first leg, Wissam Ben Yedder, who regained his place at the forefront of the Principality club’s attack, equalized shortly after on a penalty. Two minutes later, everything had to be redone for Monaco, who conceded a new goal by Palacios, after a defensive error by Malang Sarr (1-2, 21st). At the break, Philippe Clément’s men are far from their performance in the league (4 consecutive victories).
Diaby crucifie Monaco
Abused, Monaco took things in hand after returning from the locker room but Bayer Leverkusen, 10th in the Bundesliga, made the break just before the hour mark by Adli. For the first time since January 7 and the elimination by Rodez in the Coupe de France, the Monegasques conceded three goals… It is now absolutely necessary to score to hope to play extra time. Ben Yedder finds the bar (60th) and finally sees his efforts rewarded on a whim from Breel Embolo (84th).
The extra time does not work to anyone’s advantage despite an opportunity from Kevin Volland, who came into play for Monaco. In the penalty shootout, Edmond Tapsoba hits Hradecky’s bar and PSG-trained Moussa Diaby converts Leverkusen’s final attempt. Monaco missed their chance.
