The opening match of the 2017 Florida Cup had Bayer Leverkusen emerging victorious after a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw this Sunday. The Germans showed more composure to secure a 4-2 win on penalty shootout at Al Lang Stadium, Tampa.
Leverkusen got off to a better start in the first 45 minutes, dominating the proceedings and pressing its Argentine rival. But the Buenos Aires outfit was the one to score first, taking a rare chance to find the back of the net.
A Wendell mistake after an exchange of passes in the 33rd minute ended in a Umeres finish that goalkeeper Ozcan couldn't stop. Chicharito had the chance to draw just before halftime, but missed a penalty given by a Sanchez handball.
Estudiantes' tide, however, started to turn as Brana was dismissed after receiving a second yellow card, leaving the Argentinians hopeless against an insisting Leverkusen in the second half.
The effort lasted for 30 minutes, as Schreck collected a ball inside the box, rounded the defenders and slotted it home. The match then cooled down, with a shootout deciding who would emerge victorious in Tampa.
Aguirregaray and Diarte couldn't convert their kicks, while Mehmedi also missed a chance. But Leverkusen's better composure helped it win 4-2 on penalties, taking the first three points in the 2017 Challenge.