Tella on target as Bayer Leverkusen ease past Genk in pre-season friendly rout

Nigeria forward Nathan Tella underlined his sharp pre-season form with a well-taken goal as Bayer Leverkusen swept aside Genk 4-0 in a friendly on Wednesday afternoon.

The Super Eagles attacker, looking to put an injury-hit 2025-26 campaign behind him, struck shortly before half-time to double Leverkusen’s lead after Jeanuel Belocian had opened the scoring. Further goals from Afonso Moreira and Christian Kofane after the interval capped a dominant display from the Bundesliga side.

Tella, who started on the right of Leverkusen’s attack, was heavily involved throughout the first period as his side controlled possession and territory against the Belgian visitors. His persistence was rewarded three minutes before the break when he reacted quickest inside the penalty area and finished from close range in the 42nd minute, giving the hosts a firm grip on the contest at half-time.

Belocian had earlier set Leverkusen on their way, opening the scoring on 15 minutes to establish an early advantage. The goal settled any early rhythm issues for the German club, who then dictated the tempo and repeatedly forced Genk onto the back foot.

Second-half control

Leverkusen maintained their superiority after the restart, continuing to push forward rather than sit on their two-goal cushion. Moreira added the third goal soon after the interval, effectively ending any prospect of a Genk response.

Cameroonian striker Kofane then completed the scoring, applying the finishing touch to another flowing move to make it 4-0 and underline the gulf between the sides on the day. The margin of victory reflected Leverkusen’s authority across both halves, with Genk struggling to create clear chances.

Tella was withdrawn on the hour mark, making way for Ernest Poku after another positive outing in Leverkusen’s build-up to the new season. The substitution allowed the coaching staff to manage his minutes while offering further opportunities to squad players.

Injury-plagued campaign

The encouraging performance comes after a difficult year for the 27-year-old, whose 2025-26 season was repeatedly disrupted by knee, foot and muscular problems. Those recurring issues restricted him to only 17 Bundesliga appearances, in which he scored once and provided six assists.

Those limited outings fell short of expectations following his move from Southampton, with Tella unable to build sustained rhythm or match fitness. Each time he appeared close to full sharpness, another setback halted his progress and interrupted his role in the side.

New-season ambitions

This pre-season, however, offers the forward a chance to reset. Tella is aiming to use these warm-up fixtures to regain full fitness, maintain his current scoring touch and convince the coaching staff he can be a key figure for Bayer Leverkusen in the coming campaign.

With competition for attacking places strong, consistent performances in friendly matches such as the comfortable win over Genk will be crucial as he seeks to re-establish himself after last season’s frustration.