Bayer Leverkusen sealed their place in the Champions League round of 16 with a commanding 2-0 victory over Sparta Prague at the BayArena, thanks to a goal in each half and a standout performance from Nigerian winger Nathan Tella.

From the opening whistle, Die Werkself asserted control, pinning Sparta Prague in their half and dictating the tempo.

Their breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Jeremie Frimpong burst down the right flank and delivered a pinpoint cross to Florian Wirtz, who guided a first-time finish past Sparta goalkeeper Peter Vindahl.

Leverkusen remained in control after the restart, and their persistence paid off in the 64th minute when Tella, making his mark in the competition, fired home his first-ever Champions League goal to double the lead.

Tella’s Standout Performance

Beyond his crucial goal, Tella put in an impressive shift before being substituted in the 83rd minute for Robert Andrich.

The Nigerian winger registered two shots on target, one resulting in his goal while also attempting two off target.

He maintained an impressive 95% pass accuracy, completing 21 of 22 passes, and managed 42 touches throughout the game.

Sparta Prague, despite a spirited display, struggled to break down Leverkusen’s well-organized defense. Nigerian forward Victor Olatunji was among their most active players, but the Czech side ultimately failed to pose a serious threat.

Elsewhere in Europe: Nwaneri Stars in Arsenal’s Comeback Win

Meanwhile, in Spain, Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri produced a moment of brilliance to inspire the Gunners to a 2-1 comeback victory over Girona.

The 17-year-old midfielder picked up the ball inside the box, weaved past two defenders, and unleashed a stunning strike into the far corner to register his first-ever Champions League goal.

With performances like these, both Tella and Nwaneri are proving to be exciting talents to watch as the competition progresses.