Bayer Leverkusen’s lacklustre performance in their 2-2 draw against Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga on Saturday, which included conceding a last-minute equaliser, was attributed to the weak defensive efforts of the German champions, according to coach Xabi Alonso.
Werder managed to come from behind twice and secure a point, leaving Leverkusen with their third draw in the last four league matches. Alonso commented, “The ability for Werder to make a comeback was due to both teams. We were not strong enough in our defensive play, and they capitalized on their opportunities.” He added, “We have the capability and the responsibility to defend better. Currently, we lack stability. Once we regain it, we will see improvement.” The Spanish coach successfully guided the team to an undefeated domestic league and Cup double last season. “At the end of the day, we cannot be content with squandering a lead twice,” stated Alonso. “This has occurred before this season. There are areas that require correction.”
Leverkusen’s recent stumble in the league places them five points behind RB Leipzig, the current leaders, in third position. Additionally, they drew 1-1 against Brest in the Champions League on Wednesday. Central defender Jonathan Tah expressed his dissatisfaction by saying, “This feels dreadful. It’s as if we lost. We simply need to defend until the very last second.”
“The goals that were allowed to pass through our defenses were quite exasperating. I bear the weight of responsibility for that. However, we will have an opportunity to prove the critics wrong and put an end to the discussions surrounding our performance.”
