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- Alonso ‘bitter’ as Bayer Leverkusen unbeaten Bundesliga run ends (newsbreak.com)
Bayer Leverkusen’s coach Xabi Alonso expressed his disappointment following their first Bundesliga defeat since May 2023, breaking their 35-game unbeaten streak with a 3-2 loss to RB Leipzig on Saturday. Despite the potential for a late-game equalizer when a penalty was reviewed in the 86th minute—ultimately not awarded—Leverkusen could not secure a comeback.
Alonso highlighted his team’s knack for scoring crucial late goals, however, the match didn’t turn in their favor this time. Losing narrowly prevented Leverkusen from equaling Hamburg’s 36-game unbeaten record from the 1982-83 season. It was a particularly stinging defeat as Alonso felt his team didn’t deserve to lose, given their performance, he commented to Sky.
Leverkusen initially dominated, scoring twice within six minutes in the first half. Jeremie Frimpong capitalized on a defensive error to slip past Leipzig’s backline and score.
Shortly after, Alex Grimaldo completed a well-orchestrated move involving new recruit Martin Terrier. Despite this lead, Leipzig’s Kevin Kampl scored just before half-time, shifting the match’s momentum.
Leipzig’s Openda later scored twice, securing the win with precise shots.
Reflecting on the match’s swings, Alonso conceded that his team lost control in the second half, allowing Leipzig to capitalize on counterattacks. He acknowledged both positive and negative takeaways, emphasizing the need for better defensive cohesion as they aim to defend their title.
As they prepare for their next match against Hoffenheim and the impending Champions League opener against Feyenoord, Alonso is focused on tightening their defense and capitalizing on scoring opportunities, as highlighted by player Jeremie Frimpong’s comments on the team’s need to finish their chances.
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- Alonso ‘bitter’ as Bayer Leverkusen unbeaten Bundesliga run ends (newsbreak.com)