Hofmann's magic and Boniface's headbutt

It was another one of those evenings when Bayer fans' hearts beat faster right up to the last minute. In the thrilling UEFA Europa League quarter-final first leg, Bayer 04 Leverkusen put in an impressive performance against West Ham United, scoring late goals to secure a 2-0 victory.

The BayArena was not only sold out that evening, but also filled with a tense atmosphere worthy of any thriller. Bayer dominated the first half, but despite overwhelming chances and more than 80% possession, the ball just wouldn't find the net. West Ham, who had a strong defensive focus, were lucky to go into half-time without conceding a goal.

However, Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen's tactical mastermind, once again proved his golden touch with player changes. When many fans were already expecting a draw, he brought fresh blood onto the pitch. Jonas Hofmann and Victor Boniface, who were both only substituted in the 76th minute, were to decide the game within the last ten minutes.

Hofmann's goal in the 83rd minute was a real masterstroke. After a corner and an initially blocked shot, he took a volley and hit the net with a precision that would make any goalkeeper sweat. The stadium exploded into cheers as if the decisive goal had been scored in a World Cup final.