Match Summary
Bayer Leverkusen defeated Sparta Praha 2:0. The match was played in UEFA Champions League 2024. Goals were scored by F. Wirtz 32′, N. Tella 64′. 4 yellow cards were shown. Bayer Leverkusen had 71% possession while Sparta Praha held 29%. Bayer Leverkusen had 26 shots (10 on target) compared to 12 (1 on target) for Sparta Praha. Expected goals: Bayer Leverkusen 1.68 — Sparta Praha 0.82. Bayer Leverkusen made 5 substitutions, Sparta Praha made 5. VAR was involved: Penalty cancelled (Edmond Tapsoba 30′).
Match Events
Key match events between Bayer Leverkusen and Sparta Praha — 2 goals and 4 cards recorded during the match.
assist: J. Frimpong
Match Statistics
Bayer Leverkusen had 71% possession against Sparta Praha's 29%. Bayer Leverkusen registered 26 shots (10 on target) while Sparta Praha managed 12 (1 on target). Corner kicks: 10–2. Fouls committed: 5–6.
Lineups
Bayer Leverkusen lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation under Xabi Alonso, while Sparta Praha deployed a 3-5-2 under L. Friis.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Bayer Leverkusen is 6.86, compared to 6.94 for Sparta Praha. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Bayer Leverkusen's highest-rated starter is Álex Grimaldo (7.32), while Sparta Praha's best-rated player is A. Ševínský (7.25).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Bayer Leverkusen have contributed 8 goals and 4 assists this season, led by Álex Grimaldo (4G). Sparta Praha's starters account for 7 goals and 3 assists, spearheaded by V. Birmančević (5G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Bayer Leverkusen deploy 3 defenders rated 6.84 on average, against Sparta Praha's 3-man backline averaging 7.11. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Bayer Leverkusen field 4 midfielders averaging 6.76, versus Sparta Praha's 5 rated 6.78. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Bayer Leverkusen start 3 forward(s) averaging 6.99, compared to 2 for Sparta Praha averaging 7.08. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 72% for Bayer Leverkusen and 62% for Sparta Praha. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Bayer Leverkusen's starters have collected 6 yellow cards this season, compared to 11 for Sparta Praha. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Bayer Leverkusen's starting XI is 26.8 (youngest: F. Wirtz (22), oldest: Álex Grimaldo (30)), while Sparta Praha average 28.0 (youngest: A. Ševínský (21), oldest: J. Zelený (33)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Bayer Leverkusen's starters average 6 league appearances each, versus 13 for Sparta Praha. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Bayer Leverkusen have recorded 1 wins, 4 draws and 1 defeats. Sparta Praha show 4 wins, 2 draws and 0 losses from their last 6 outings.
Bayer Leverkusen
Sparta Praha
API data: 15 Mar 2026