Bayer Leverkusen has secured a spot in the Champions League Round of 16 after a laborious 0-0 draw against Olympiakos Piräus in the playoffs. The team, guided by coach Kasper Hjulmand, managed to qualify by maintaining their aggregate lead from the first leg, where they won 2-0. Despite the lack of goals in the return match, Leverkusen's defensive strategy proved effective against a resilient Olympiakos side.

In preparation for this critical match, Hjulmand reverted to his starting eleven after Leverkusen's recent defeat to Union Berlin. A notable change was the inclusion of Jonas Hofmann, who took the place of Ernest Poku on the right wing. Hofmann emphasized the importance of not allowing their opponents to build confidence, stating, "We must be present and ensure they feel they have no chance to come back into the game." This focus on defense and discipline helped the team stave off any significant threats from Olympiakos.

Looking ahead, Leverkusen will face a high-stakes challenge in the next round, potentially clashing with either Bayern Munich or Arsenal, the current leaders of the Premier League. The victory in this match solidifies Leverkusen's position in European football, highlighting their resilience and tactical acumen. Players like Alejandro Grimaldo, known for his exceptional free-kick skills, promise to be crucial assets as the team aims to advance further in the tournament.