Leverkusen overcomes Roma in an epic comeback, while Atalanta secures victory against Marseille to set up a thrilling Europa League final in Dublin

 Bayer Leverkusen’s coach Xabi Alonso believes his team deserves to win all three titles they’re vying for this season. On Thursday, they advanced to the Europa League final by overturning a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 against AS Roma, sealing their spot in the Dublin final with a 4-2 aggregate win. They also set a new European record with 49 consecutive matches unbeaten across all competitions, breaking Benfica’s long-standing streak from the 1960s.

Leverkusen’s captain, Granit Xhaka, described the team’s triumph as “pure goosebumps,” expressing his joy in overreaching the final after the dramatic equalizer from Josip Stanisic. Roma’s defence cracked under pressure, allowing an own goal by Gianluca Mancini before Stanisic’s late strike sent Leverkusen into the record books and secured the final berth. “I looked my players in the eye afterwards and saw that they wanted more,” Alonso said. “We still have the chance to win three titles. And my boys deserve all three titles.”

The dramatic Leverkusen comeback sets them up against Italy’s Atalanta, who dominated Olympique de Marseille in the other semifinal. A powerful 3-0 victory ensured their first Europa League final with a 4-1 aggregate score. Ademola Lookman, Matteo Ruggeri, and El Bilal Toure all found the net for Atalanta, while Marseille struggled to generate any significant chances.

Lookman opened the scoring with a long-range strike before providing the assist for Ruggeri’s second goal. Substitute Toure then wrapped up the victory in stoppage time. Ruggeri captured the emotions best, saying, “Now we can dream with our eyes open that we’re in the final. It’s a moment to celebrate with our people.”

Coach Gian Piero Gasperini acknowledged the historical significance of this achievement, given that Atalanta rarely makes it this far on the European stage. “It will be a historic occasion for a team like ours that doesn’t have the numbers of fans to win,” he said. “Football is beautiful because of meritocracy, not because of acquired rights.”

The Europa League final promises to be a thrilling showdown between Bayer Leverkusen, who also reached the German Cup final, and Atalanta, who are looking for a trophy double with an upcoming Coppa Italia final against Juventus. Both clubs have shown remarkable resilience and hunger for success this season, setting up what should be a memorable battle in Dublin on May 22.

Analysis:

 Bayer Leverkusen and Atalanta’s triumphant progression to the Europa League final showcases the power of teamwork and determination. Leverkusen, under Alonso’s leadership, have embodied resilience and strategic play. Their 49-game unbeaten streak is not just a milestone but a testament to their cohesion and ability to handle high-stakes matches.

Politically, both teams represent the aspirations of smaller clubs challenging Europe’s traditional powerhouses. Their journeys exemplify the potential for underdogs to compete and excel, upholding football’s values of meritocracy.

Sociologically, Leverkusen and Atalanta’s stories resonate with their fan bases. Leverkusen’s rise under a novice manager like Alonso and Atalanta’s blend of youthful energy and experienced leadership offer relatable narratives for supporters. Both clubs unite their cities through sport, fostering pride and community.

Economically, reaching the Europa League final significantly boosts their marketability and sponsorship appeal. The prize money, exposure, and prestige will open new revenue streams, helping both clubs compete on a higher level.

Locally, Leverkusen’s success invigorates a club that lives in the shadow of nearby giants like Bayern Munich. Atalanta similarly operates under Italy’s football titans, Juventus and AC Milan. Their progress will inspire grassroots football and ignite belief among young players.

From a minority and marginalized perspective, both teams’ success reflects the growing diversity in European football. Leverkusen and Atalanta have multicultural squads representing numerous nationalities and cultures. This inclusivity fosters understanding and unity among their supporters.

The Europa League final will reflect these diverse layers of competition, offering an inspiring spectacle of resilience and strategic brilliance