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Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso Reflects on Atletico Defeat and Team's Growth

Posted : 22 January 2025

Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso expressed disappointment over his team's inability to maintain their first-half lead against a 10-man Atletico Madrid, who came back to secure a 2-1 victory in the Champions League on Tuesday. Alonso attributed the loss to his side's lack of maturity under pressure, a shortcoming that became evident as the knockout stage of the competition approaches.

 

The defeat ended Leverkusen's impressive 11-game winning streak and left them sixth in the standings with 13 points, trailing Atletico, who moved up to third with 15 points.

 

Speaking to Movistar Plus, Alonso emphasized the importance of learning from such challenging experiences to grow as a team capable of competing at the highest level. He noted that maturity plays a critical role in high-pressure games, particularly in crucial moments, and acknowledged that his young squad fell short in this aspect.

 

Alonso stressed the need for his players to develop a better understanding of how to manage the game's energy and respond effectively to overwhelming situations on the pitch.

 

Alonso also highlighted that learning to navigate high-stakes matches is a process that requires firsthand experience. While it is easy to discuss strategies off the field, true growth comes from encountering and overcoming such challenges during actual gameplay.

 

He sees this as an essential lesson for his team as they aim to strengthen their performances in the Champions League and other competitions.

 

Leverkusen, who were crowned German double winners last season, now shift their focus to their final Champions League group-stage match against Sparta Prague next Wednesday. Alonso and his team will aim to bounce back from this setback and secure a strong finish in the first phase of the tournament.

 

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