Champions League - Bayer Leverkusen 3 Sporting Lisbon 2

Bayer Leverkusen defeated Portuguese champions Sporting Lisbon after the visiting team took an early lead only to self destruct.

Sporting took the lead in the 12th minute when Andre Cruz swerved in a corner kick for goalkeeper Pascal Zuberbuehler fluffed a save and dropped the ball into his net in wet conditions.

The game turned shortly before half time when Sporting lost their control of the match after Joao Pinto was red carded after his second bookable defence.

With the advantage of an extra man Leverkusen took charge and Carsten Ramelow drove in the equaliser in the 65th minute for a close range finish after a cross from Thomas Brdadic.

The two Bayer stars combined again in the 72nd minute when Ramelow slid a ball through for Brdadic to slot the ball in.

Oliver Neuville celebrated his new contract with the club by volleying what proved to be the winner in the 77th minute.

Sa Pinto converted an 88th minute penalty but Sporting's chance went when his namesake was dismissed and Leverkusen saw the chance to end their recent dismal run.