Bayer Leverkusen begin their 2026/27 Europa League campaign at home to NK Celje on Wednesday evening. Kick-off at the BayArena is at 21:00 CET, with Carles Martinez’s side returning to the competition after two seasons in the Champions League.
Europa League opener in Leverkusen
- Fixture: Bayer 04 Leverkusen v NK Celje
- Competition: Europa League league phase, Matchday 1
- Date: Wednesday, 16 September 2026
- Kick-off: 21:00 CET
- Venue: BayArena, Leverkusen
Leverkusen were placed in Pot 1 for the league-phase draw and begin as one of the teams expected to compete deep into the tournament. Slovenian visitors Celje provide the first test.
Ibrahim Maza and his team-mates will look to establish momentum immediately in Europe after the club’s Champions League spell.
How to watch Bayer Leverkusen v NK Celje
- TV: RTL will show the match live on free-to-air television.
- Stream: RTL+ will carry the game for subscribers.
- Coverage begins: 20:15 CET on RTL.
- Presenter: Laura Papendieck.
- Studio analyst: Lothar Matthäus, who will also join Wolff Fuss on commentary.
Team line-ups are expected around an hour before kick-off.
Match details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Home side | Bayer 04 Leverkusen |
| Away side | NK Celje |
| Season | Europa League 2026/27 |
| Round | League phase, Matchday 1 |
| Stadium | BayArena |
