Bayer Leverkusen delivered an exceptional display during their 0-0 draw with Bayern Munich on Saturday, according to coach Xabi Alonso, who felt that the only element lacking was a goal to cap off their remarkable performance. The champions asserted dominance early on, hitting the woodwork twice in the first half and applying intense pressure to limit the visitors’ opportunities.
This marked the first instance in Bundesliga history since 1992, when statistics were recorded, where Bayern failed to register a shot on target throughout an entire first half. Alonso expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, considering it their finest showing against Bayern in recent years. Despite creating numerous chances, the missed goal left them somewhat dissatisfied with the final outcome, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football.
Alonso remained optimistic about the team’s prospects, emphasising that there are still ample opportunities ahead in various competitions, indicating that the title race is far from over despite failing to narrow the gap with Bayern.
Leverkusen, who also had a prime opportunity in the latter stages of the second half through Amine Adli, currently hold the second position, trailing Bayern by eight points.
“Today, they rightfully dominated possession. Their pressing was exceptional,” remarked Bayern coach Vincent Kompany. “Consequently, we were forced to adopt a defensive stance. I must commend my team for their efforts.”
Bayern, fresh off a 2-1 victory over Celtic in the Champions League playoff first leg in Glasgow earlier in the week, failed to register a shot on target against Leverkusen for over 70 minutes, despite scoring 65 goals in 21 league matches before Saturday’s encounter.
“For us, securing this draw allows us to regroup and concentrate on the upcoming match,” stated Kompany. “Their performance today warranted them putting us on the back foot. They executed their tactics perfectly. We will undoubtedly derive valuable lessons from this match.”
