Friendly match: Bayer Leverkusen defeats Newcastle 2-1 thanks to goals from Maza and Boniface

15.08.26 FT Club Friendlies

Newcastle

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Bayer Leverkusen

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Bayer Leverkusen is back in the spotlight. Just three days after a 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest, the 2024 Bundesliga champions bounced back to overcome Newcastle with a 2-1 win in a preparatory match.

This victory had a distinct African signature. The action started in the very first minute, when Christian Kouvani delivered a decisive pass to Ibrahim Maza, who opened the scoring. The young Algerian international thus netted his second goal of the preseason. Newcastle drew level at the end of the first half from a set piece, but Leverkusen emerged from the dressing room with renewed determination.

Maza and Boniface duo make the difference

This time, Maza turned provider. After a brilliant surge through the middle, he slipped the ball to Victor Boniface, who slotted it home to restore the Germans' lead. The Nigerian striker, renowned for his clinical finishing, sealed the 2-1 victory. At the back, Burkinabe rock Edmond Tapsoba, the captain, was outstanding. He excelled in one-on-one duels, built up play cleanly, and was a true leader at the heart of defense. Thanks to the African talents of Maza and Kouvani, combined with the experience of Tapsoba and Boniface, Leverkusen has all the ingredients to mount a serious challenge for the Bundesliga title.

Now, the focus shifts to the cup and resumption of the season. This victory boosts morale ahead of the next phase. Leverkusen will first face the cup challenge, then kick off the league campaign on August 29 against Elversberg. All eyes will be on the Maza-Kouvani-Boniface trio, who have already proven decisive against Newcastle.

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

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