Hofmann Steals The Show As Leverkusen Make It Six Wins In A Row

Bayer Leverkusen continued their impressive run under Carles Martínez with a comfortable 2-0 victory over OFI Crete in the Europa League on Thursday evening, thanks to an unlikely hero.

Jonas Hofmann, only recently added to Leverkusen's European squad following Martin Terrier's injury, marked his return to continental action with two goals in the space of three minutes.

The 34-year-old struck twice in the first half to secure Die Werkself's third consecutive Europa League victory, extending their winning streak across all competitions to six matches.

Even more impressively, the German side has now scored eight goals without conceding in their opening three European fixtures.

Hofmann Makes The Most Of His Unexpected Opportunity

Hofmann's involvement in Greece was far from guaranteed just days ago.

The experienced attacking midfielder had initially been left out of Leverkusen's Europa League squad, but Terrier's hamstring injury opened the door for his inclusion.

Martínez handed him a starting opportunity against OFI, and Hofmann responded in spectacular fashion.

Bayer controlled possession from the opening stages but initially struggled to break down the hosts' compact defensive structure.

That changed in the 35th minute when Hofmann found the breakthrough.

Just three minutes later, he struck again, completing a remarkable quickfire double that effectively settled the contest before half-time.

For a player whose opportunities have been limited this season, the performance was a powerful reminder of his experience and attacking quality.

It also gave Martínez another reliable option as Leverkusen prepare for a demanding schedule.

Martínez's Rotation Pays Off Again

With fixtures arriving thick and fast, Martínez used the trip to Greece to rotate his starting lineup.

Janis Blaswich started in goal, while Jarell Quansah, Loïc Badé, Facundo Medina and Lucas Vázquez featured in defence.

Hofmann joined Patrik Schick, Malik Tillman and Afonso Moreira in the attacking setup, with Ibrahim Maza initially rested.

The changes did little to disrupt Leverkusen's control.

Although OFI occasionally threatened on the counterattack, Blaswich remained alert whenever called upon.

Martínez also used the second half to distribute minutes throughout his squad.

Maza, Nathan Tella and Miguel Gutiérrez entered shortly after the hour mark, while captain Edmond Tapsoba and Moussa Diaby were introduced later.

Die Werkself continued to create opportunities but could not add a third goal, with OFI goalkeeper Klidman Lilo preventing a heavier defeat.

Nine Points, Three Clean Sheets And Growing Confidence

Leverkusen's European campaign could hardly have started better.

After beating Celje 2-0 and Lech Poznań 4-0, Thursday's victory takes their record to three wins from three, with eight goals scored and none conceded.

The result also strengthens their position in the race for a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the Europa League round of 16.

Perhaps the biggest positive for Martínez is that the winning run has continued despite injuries and regular changes to his starting lineup.

Hofmann's double is the clearest example of the depth available to Leverkusen, while another clean sheet provides further evidence of their defensive improvement.

The next European challenge will be considerably tougher, with Olympique Marseille visiting the BayArena on November 5.

Before then, Bayer must return their attention to the Bundesliga, where maintaining momentum will be equally important.

For now, six consecutive victories and a perfect Europa League record suggest Martínez's project is gathering serious momentum.

From here the stage only gets bigger.