Bundesliga: Alonso insists title race is still open despite Leverkusen setback
Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso remains confident in the title race despite his team’s 0-0 home draw against Bayern Munich on Saturday, which left them trailing the league leaders by eight points.
Leverkusen dominated possession and dictated play but struggled to break down a Bayern side that sat deep, content to maintain their lead with 12 games remaining in the season. Remarkably, it was only the second time since 1992 that Bayern failed to register a shot on target in a Bundesliga match.
“We played very well. We did everything possible to win, except score,” Alonso told reporters.
The Spaniard admitted he was surprised by his team’s dominance against Bayern.
“I’ve watched many Bayern games this season, and they are usually the dominant side. Today, we were in control,” he said. “The stats reflect that—we just lacked precision in the final third.”
Despite the draw, Alonso remains optimistic about Leverkusen’s chances.
“In terms of the table, it wasn’t enough to close the gap, but the season is far from over,” he said. “Like I mentioned last year when we were chasing the title, let’s talk again in April—there are still plenty of points to fight for.”
He added that Leverkusen would continue pushing for success on all fronts.
“We will keep fighting in every competition and keep striving to win,” he emphasized.
Despite the disappointment, Alonso took encouragement from the performance.
“This match proves we can compete with anyone. It’s something we can build on in the Bundesliga and, especially, in the Champions League,” he said.
Leverkusen were the only German club to finish in the top eight of the Champions League this season.
Meanwhile, Bayern coach Vincent Kompany dismissed claims that his side was fortunate to earn a point.
“Leverkusen deserved to put us under pressure, but we showed the mentality to defend—players like Harry (Kane) and Jamal (Musiala), who usually score for us, were putting in the hard work to block shots,” Kompany said.
