Hjulmand hails Leverkusen’s “top performance against a top team”

The Bayer Leverkusen coach was full of praise for his side despite conceding an agonizing late equalizer in their first-leg draw with Arsenal.

Tonight’s 1-1 first-leg draw with Arsenal left Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand with a lot to ponder but largely sensed the positives.

“I have mixed emotions. We played well and didn’t concede many chances. We were active and played well with the ball.

“It was a top performance against a top team. Of course, it’s very frustrating that we only drew 1-1, but travelling to London with high hopes.

“Arsenal are under a lot of pressure [as favourites]. We’re looking forward to this game and want to cause an upset,” Hjulmand said after the game. 

Although not directly involved tonight’s goal, 19-year-old Christian Kofane impressed and feels the Rhineland club have cause for optimism. 

“Anything is possible in football – we saw that today. We played against one of the best teams in the world.

“We had them on the brink of defeat. That must give us hope for next week’s match, but it certainly won’t be easy,” Kofane explained.