Ibrahim Maza made an assured first appearance for Bayer Leverkusen in their German Cup triumph over fourth-tier side SG Sonnenhof Großaspach, playing a pivotal role in a comfortable 4-0 victory.
The 19-year-old Algerian midfielder was named in Erik ten Hag’s starting line-up, marking his competitive debut just a week after featuring in Leverkusen’s final pre-season friendly against Chelsea.
Although not directly involved in the goals, Maza’s performance drew attention for his composure, physicality, and ability to adapt seamlessly to the rhythm of Leverkusen’s attacking play.
From the outset, Leverkusen controlled proceedings with authority. Ten Hag opted for a strong line-up to ensure there would be no early upset in the competition, fielding established names such as Patrik Schick, Arthur Garcia, and Amine Adli. While the forwards provided the goals, Maza’s contribution in midfield ensured Leverkusen dictated the tempo with ease.
The youngster, who previously developed at Hertha Berlin, wore the familiar blue kit for his new club and looked at home on the pitch. His sharpness in one-on-one battles, combined with quick decision-making and a readiness to exploit space in behind, highlighted his maturity well beyond his years.
Though Schick and Garcia drew the headlines with their attacking returns, Maza’s ability to recycle possession and initiate attacking transitions gave Leverkusen an added dimension in midfield. His relentless pressing and physical strength allowed the Bundesliga champions to dominate the central areas, cutting off any prospect of Großaspach causing problems on the counter.
The match itself unfolded much as expected. Leverkusen struck early, applying sustained pressure that the home side struggled to contain. Goals from Schick and Garcia gave the visitors breathing space before half-time, with Adli later adding his name to the scoresheet.
A fourth goal sealed a commanding performance that confirmed Leverkusen’s progression to the next round without difficulty.
For Maza, however, the evening was about more than just the result. This first official appearance provided him with an opportunity to prove his readiness for top-level football, and he delivered with a performance full of confidence and purpose.
Though still awaiting his first goal contribution, his intelligent movement and defensive awareness gave the coaching staff encouragement that he could quickly become a valuable squad member.
The youngster’s display also underscored Leverkusen’s trust in emerging talent. Ten Hag’s decision to hand him a starting role in a knockout fixture reflected confidence in his ability, and Maza responded with maturity.
His ability to balance defensive responsibility with an eagerness to push forward suggested he has the versatility required to thrive in a highly competitive midfield.
Leverkusen’s attention will now turn back to the Bundesliga, where they are set to host Hoffenheim in their opening league fixture next week.
With competition for places fierce, Maza faces a challenge to secure regular minutes, yet his debut performance has certainly strengthened his case.
While the night ultimately belonged to the team’s senior forwards, Ibrahim Maza’s assured start in Leverkusen colours marked him out as a player worth watching. For the Algerian teenager, the German Cup tie may well prove to be the first step in what promises to be an exciting chapter of his career.
Ibrahim Maza VS Grossaspach. ( 19 )
This guy… 💎🇩🇿
DFB POKAL. 🏆🇩🇪
85 minutes jouées. ⏱️ pic.twitter.com/jB5nnZUuQI
— 𝗠𝗘𝗥𝗖𝗨. 🔍🇩🇿 (@CompsMercu) August 15, 2025
