Bayer Leverkusen couldn’t get the victory in their first game of the new Champions League season (2025/26). The new manager Hjulmand is still getting used to his team. Copenhagen were leading by 1-0 since the start and then in the 82nd minute, Grimaldo equalised the scoreline. However, Copenhagen took the lead again, but was again cancelled out by an own goal.
Bayer Leverkusen’s return to the Champions League began with frustration as they were held to a 2-2 draw by FC Copenhagen in their opening group stage clash of the 2025/26 campaign.
New manager Kasper Hjulmand is still settling into life, and his side showed both resilience and vulnerability in a dramatic encounter. Copenhagen struck early to take a 1-0 lead that they held for most of the game, keeping Leverkusen on the back foot despite spells of possession.
The breakthrough finally came in the 82nd minute when Alejandro Grimaldo curled home a fine equaliser, raising hopes of a late turnaround. But just moments later, the Danish champions reclaimed their advantage, punishing Leverkusen’s defensive lapses.
In a twist of fortune, Leverkusen were spared defeat when a Copenhagen own goal in the closing stages restored parity. The result leaves Hjulmand’s men with plenty to improve on, as they search for their first win in Europe under the new boss.
