Bayer Leverkusen, after taking the lead through a goal by Andrich in the first leg of their 2025/26 UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie, were held to a 1-1 draw by Premier League giants Arsenal after conceding a penalty late in the game. Kasper Jullmann stated that while disappointed with the result, he still hopes to pull off an upset in their next away match against Arsenal.

Grimaldo took a corner in the 47th minute of the second half, and Andritz headed the ball into the net, giving Leverkusen a 1-0 lead.

In the 86th minute, Maduk was tripped by Malik Tillman in the penalty area, and Arsenal were awarded a penalty after VAR intervention. Havertz then converted the penalty to level the score at 1-1.

Ultimately, Bayer Leverkusen were held to a 1-1 draw by Arsenal at the BayArena.

Bayer Leverkusen manager Casper Jullmann said, "I have mixed feelings. We played very well and didn't give them many chances. We were very aggressive on the pitch and had good possession. Against such a top team, we played a high-level game. Of course, it's very frustrating to only draw 1-1, but we will go to London with high expectations."

"As a favorite team, Arsenal must be under a lot of pressure. We are looking forward to the second leg and hope to cause an upset."

Bayer Leverkusen striker Christian Cofane said, "Anything is possible in football, and we've seen that, especially since we're playing against one of the best teams in the world."

“We brought them close to losing at one point, which should give us confidence for next week’s game, but it certainly won’t be an easy one.”

Furthermore, Kai Havertz, the Arsenal striker who previously played for Bayer Leverkusen, said, "The time between the referee awarding the penalty and the actual penalty being taken feels like a very long time. But ultimately, players must maintain mental focus in those moments."

“I am very familiar with this stadium and have taken many penalties from this position, so I felt good at the time, and we have an important task waiting for us next week.”

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