A Patrik Schick masterclass shattered Lech Poznan’s resistance as Bayer Leverkusen stormed to a brutal 4-0 victory in their UEFA Europa League group stage clash. The Polish side’s Europa League dream turned to dust within 29 minutes when VAR confirmed their first defensive lapse — Schick converting the resulting penalty with cold precision.
The stadium fell silent again four minutes later as Malik Tillman punished Poznan’s ragged backline with a crisp finish, Leverkusen’s 61% possession translating into surgical domination. When Schick completed his hat-trick from the spot in the 41st minute after another VAR intervention, Poznan’s players trudged towards halftime like men walking to the gallows.
Lech Poznan’s Torment Goes On
Desperate second-half substitutions from manager Frederiksen failed to stem the tide. Leverkusen’s xG of 5.22 told the story of a team carving through at will, with Ibrahim Maza rubbing salt in the wounds with an 88th-minute strike. At the final whistle, Poznan’s players collapsed to their knees — their three shots on target a pitiful return against Leverkusen’s ten.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Statement Win
For Xabi Alonso’s side, this was a warning shot. Schick’s predatory instincts (three goals from 0.78 xG) and Tillman’s creative spark (three key passes) showcased a machine operating at terrifying efficiency. Their 16 fouls showed the calculated aggression underpinning the flair — Robert Andrich and Moussa Diaby’s yellow cards the price of total midfield control.
For Poznan, a long road back. For Leverkusen, another step towards Europa League supremacy. When the groups reconvene, these sides will walk out to very different expectations.
Key Moments
29′ ⚽ Bayer Leverkusen — Patrik Schick
32′ ⚽ Bayer Leverkusen — Malik Tillman
41′ ⚽ Bayer Leverkusen — Patrik Schick
88′ ⚽ Bayer Leverkusen — Ibrahim Maza (assist: Afonso Moreira)
Lech Poznan



