Dramatic Encounter: 'Brest' and 'Bayer' Keep the Intrigue

A new turn in the Champions League: 'Brest' holds a draw against 'Bayer', raising its chances for the playoffs.

'Brest' continues to surprise on the international stage. In their debut Champions League season, the team maintains a successful unbeaten run, earning another point in a match with German football giant — 'Bayer' from Leverkusen. Despite experience and skill, Xabi Alonso's players found it harder to break through opponents' defenses compared to initial matches, such as against 'Feyenoord'.

In the first half, 'Bayer' held a significant advantage, yet real threats to 'Brest's' goal were scarce. However, on the 24th minute, the score was opened: the visiting defense lost focus just for a moment, enough for a successful pass to Wirtz, finishing with a precise shot into the bottom corner.

'Brest's' attacks were fruitless until 'Bayer's' pressure eased, allowing the hosts to take their chances. Shortly before the break, Le-Melu struck unexpectedly from the penalty line — leaving Kovarzh with no chances.

In the second half, the balance of power became apparent. The hosts awaited their opportunity, mindful that Leverkusen could increase the pace at any moment. But despite efforts, even substitutions failed to rejuvenate the guests' attacking play. The result remained unchanged — 1:1.

Few anticipated that after three matches 'Brest' would have seven points and strong prospects for reaching the Champions League playoffs.

'Brest' — 'Bayer' 1:1 (1:1)
Goals: Wirtz, 24 (0:1); Le-Melu, 39 (1:1)
'Brest': Bizot; Aidara M.; Koulibaly Su.; Lala K.; Chardonnet B.; Camara M. (Doumbia K., 83); Le-Melu; Magnetti (Fernandes E., 83); Del Castillo (Faivre R., 73); Ajorque (Salah I., 72); Sima A. (Balde M-a, 66)
Substitutes: Joni N.; Kouder; Amavi; Ndiaye Ab.; Martin J.; Pereira Lage; Camblan
Warnings: Salah I. 84; Le-Melu 95
'Bayer': Kovarzh M.; Grimaldo; Hincapié; Mukiele (Tabsoba E., 73); Tha Dj.; Wirtz; Garcia Al.; Palacios Ek. (Xhaka G., 63); Tella (Frimpong J., 63); Hofmann; Schick (Adli A., 63; Terrier, 81)
Substitutes: Hradecky; Lomb; Arthur Soares; Andrich; Belosian; Onyeka F-I.
Warnings: Frimpong J. 72; Wirtz 74; Tha Dj. 92