Bayer Leverkusen rescued a valuable point in their Champions League opener after a 91st-minute own goal from Copenhagen’s Pantelis Hatzidiakos sealed a thrilling 2-2 draw in Denmark.
The hosts thought they had wrapped up all three points when substitute Robert Silva’s diving header put them 2-1 up in the 86th minute. Earlier, Jordan Larsson – son of legendary striker Henrik – had given Copenhagen a ninth-minute lead with a sharp half-volley.
Leverkusen equalised late in the second half through Alex Grimaldo’s stunning 25-yard free-kick, only for Silva to restore Copenhagen’s advantage moments later. But with stoppage time ticking away, Hatzidiakos turned the ball into his own net to deny the Danes victory.
The result continues a mixed start for new Leverkusen boss Kasper Hjulmand, who replaced Erik ten Hag earlier this month. After beginning his reign with a 3-1 Bundesliga win over Frankfurt, Hjulmand will take encouragement from his side’s resilience in Europe.
Leverkusen face PSV Eindhoven at home in their next group fixture on 1 October, while Copenhagen travel to Azerbaijan to face Qarabag.
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