Belgrade, January 30, 2025 – Nigerian winger Nathan Tella marked a significant milestone in his career by scoring his first-ever goal in the UEFA Champions League, helping Bayer Leverkusen secure a 2-0 victory over Sparta Prague on January 29, 2025.
This win not only showcased Tella’s talent but also ensured Leverkusen’s automatic qualification for the knockout stages of the tournament.
The match, held at the Bay Arena, saw Leverkusen dominate from the outset. German midfielder Florian Wirtz opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, putting the hosts ahead with a well-placed shot past Sparta’s goalkeeper, Peter Vindahl.
Tella doubled the lead in the 64th minute, capitalizing on a rebound after Vindahl failed to clear a direct free kick from Álex Grimaldo. Tella’s goal came as a relief and celebration for the team, marking his seventh appearance in the Champions League and finally breaking through with a goal.
After the match, Tella expressed his joy at achieving this personal milestone. Dreams come true, he stated, reflecting on his journey and the hard work that led to this moment. The former Burnley player is eager to build on this success as he aims for more playing time with Leverkusen.
With this victory, Bayer Leverkusen joins elite clubs such as Liverpool, Barcelona, and Arsenal in advancing to the Champions League round of 16. As they prepare for upcoming matches, Tella’s performance will be crucial for maintaining momentum and confidence within the squad.
The win against Sparta Prague not only boosts Leverkusen’s standing in European football but also highlights Nathan Tella’s potential as a rising star in Nigerian football. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he continues to develop in this prestigious tournament.
