No one expected Bayer Leverkusen to come out on the losing end of a battle with a side plagued with so many injuries. The German outfit had more possession, more shots, more corners and even more fouls against Roma. Yet Xabi Alonso's young players ultimately paid a heavy price for their lack of efficiency and composure. 

A goalless draw at the BayArena proved to be enough for Roma and Jose Mourinho, who guided the Italian club to the Europa League final after a 1-0 aggregate victory. The visitors were on the back foot throughout the tie, but their defense held firm and advanced into back-to-back European finals following last season's Europa Conference League glory. 

"It's an unbelievable team, I don't know if I can ask for more from Roma but these guys deserve something special," said Mourinho, who will have a chance to clinch a sixth European trophy after winning all five of his previous five finals.

The sentiment was echoed by Lorenzo Pellegrini. "There are many things which Roma can and must improve," observed the Roma captain. "But as a true group, as a family, we have succeeded in this small feat." 

In sharp contrast, despite having 23 efforts on goal, Leverkusen could only rue the missed chances after failing to reach first European final in 21 years.  

"All that was missing was a goal," said Leverkusen midfielder Kerem Demirbay. "We did not have that bit of luck. It was bitter not to be rewarded for such a performances. But I am proud of the way we played." 

Demirbay also singled out Mourinho for his defensive tactics. "It's a shame that in a semifinal at such a high level that this type of play can be rewarded," he fumed. "They made things very ugly at the end."

Mourinho is surely unfazed by other people's criticism. He has won the Europa League twice with similar tactics. And at the end of the day, the most crucial aspect is the result of the game. 

Next up for his Roma is a final date with six-time winners Sevilla in Budapest on May 31. Winning the Europa League could be their only route to squeeze into next season's Champions League.