Europa League: Leverkusen Looking To Seize Second Chance - Alonso

Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso said his side want to seize "a second chance" in their Europa League semifinal tie with Roma by progressing past the side that knocked them out at the same stage of the competition last season.

"It's important for us to be back here in the semifinal, the last time hurt. Now we have a second chance against Roma," Alonso said during a pre-match press conference.

"It's football, sometimes things don't go on your side. It's a great atmosphere here and it will be an important game but not decisive."

Leverkusen and defeated finalists Roma met at the semifinal stage of the Europa League in 2023 with the Italian side winning the first leg 1-0 at home and reaching the final following a goalless second-leg draw in Germany.

"I would say that it feels like a second chance. A second chance to do better. Last time we deserved at least a goal and take it to extra time. They are a different team, they have changed a lot (since the arrival of coach Daniele De Rossi). We are expecting an intense game," ," Alonso added.