Leverkusen 2-2 Roma (4-2): Boniface, Tella, and Lookman in all-Nigerian UEL final showdown after historic draw

Bayer Leverkusen's Nigerian contingent of Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella will tackle their Italy-based compatriot Ademola Lookman in the Europa League final after their side dramatically overturned a 2-0 deficit against Roma to progress 4-2 on aggregate.

Boniface and Tella were unused substitutes as Xabi Alonso's men looked down and out when trailing by two goals in the second leg at the BayArena on Thursday night.

A stunning late fightback, sparked by a Gianluca Mancini own goal, saw Leverkusen equalize in stoppage time through Josip Stanisic to book their place in the Dublin showpiece.

It capped a remarkable campaign for the Bundesliga side, who avenged last season's Europa League semifinal elimination by breaking Benfica's long-standing 59-year record for consecutive games unbeaten across all competitions.

Leverkusen's 49th game without defeat sets a new benchmark as they ended an agonizing long wait to reach a European final.

For the Nigerian trio of Boniface, Tella and Lookman, who helped Atalanta overcome Marseille with a goal and assist, it represents another milestone achievement in their fledgling careers after playing key roles in the history-making feats.

Boniface has led the line superbly, scoring five goals, while the pace and trickery of wingers Tella and Lookman, with two goals, have tormented defences all season.

The three Nigerians will now have a chance to enhance their growing reputations even further by starring on European club football's biggest stage.

But regardless of that outcome, the class of 2023/24 has already cemented their place in Leverkusen folklore as record-breakers and history-makers.

Boniface and Tella have played a central role in one of the club's greatest-ever campaigns that will live long in the memory of the BayArena faithful.

Having survived a major scare against Roma, Leverkusen's African gems will be determined to ensure their dream journey ends with Europa League glory next against one of their own, Lookman.