African Firepower: Cameroonian Kofane strikes on debut but Moroccan Saibari saves PSV with Champions League equaliser | OneFootball

Cameroonian teen nets first UCL goal, Moroccan midfielder replies as Leverkusen and PSV share points

African Firepower: Cameroonian Kofane strikes on debut but Moroccan Saibari saves PSV with Champions League equaliser

It was night defined by African excellence as Bayer Leverkusen & PSV Eindhoven played out 1 - 1 draw in the Champions League at the BayArena on Wednesday.

Christian Kofane’s debut strike looked set to seal victory for the German hosts but Morocco’s Ismael Saibari struck back swiftly to rescue the Dutch champions.

VAR drama and tight opening

PSV thought they'd early breakthrough when Ivan Perisic headed in Dennis Man’s cross after just 4 minute.

VAR intervened, however cancelling the goal for offside. Leverkusen responded strongly with Alejandro Grimaldo rattling the woodwork.

Kofane takes his chance

The breakthrough came in the 65 minute. A defensive lapse from PSV allowed 19 year old Cameroonian forward Christian Kofane to pounce stealing possession & finishing calmly for his first ever Champions League goal.

It was another landmark in the youngster’s rapid rise after joining Leverkusen from Albacete for over 5 million euro.

Saibari hits back for PSV

The visitors struck back just 7 minute later. Guus Til teed up Ismael Saibari who produced clinical finish in the 72 minute to level the contest.

The Moroccan international, 1 of PSV’s most consistent performers, once again showed why he's becoming central to both club and country ahead of the 2025 Africa cup of Nations.

Stalemate and next fixtures

Leverkusen pushed late on but couldn't find winner, with captain Grimaldo denied by goalkeeper Matej Kovar.

The draw leaves Leverkusen on 2 point after two match while PSV earned their 1st point following defeat in their opener.

Both teams now face huge tests next, with Leverkusen hosting champions PSG & PSV welcoming Napoli on 21 October.