Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso was disenchanted at his aspect’s naivety of their 2-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid within the Champions League on Tuesday.
Leverkusen had initially gone a purpose up in opposition to 10-man Atletico, however surrendered their lead within the second half and had a participant despatched off themselves, earlier than Julian Alvarez received it late on.
That outcome put an finish to an 11-match profitable streak for Leverkusen and leaves them sixth within the league section with 13 factors.
Whereas they’re nonetheless set to keep away from a play-off spot and progress straight to the spherical of 16, Alonso believes that his younger group have loads to study forward of the knockout levels and can take loads from the defeat.
“I believe if you’re competing on the highest degree it’s a must to study from these experiences,” Alonso informed Movistar Plus.
“In these conditions, it’s not simply soccer that counts, it’s additionally the maturity that we’ve got at that second and at present I believe we lacked that time on the highest degree and we’ve got to enhance that if we wish to compete in these matches.
“We’re nonetheless within the group stage however in the event you’re within the spherical of 16, within the quarter-final, particularly if you play away from residence, it’s a must to study from these moments.
“Perceive what it’s that you simply want, not solely within the sport itself however the sport’s power, studying the sport and studying what to do if you’re a bit overwhelmed by the scenario, tips on how to react.
“It’s very straightforward to say it however one of the best factor is if you reside it on the pitch that’s the place you learn to learn it, which generally is difficult. For us it’s a superb expertise to be competing at such a excessive degree.”
Leverkusen spherical off their league section within the Champions League with a sport at residence to Sparta Prague subsequent Wednesday.
5 – @9julianalvarez has scored 5 targets with @atletienglish within the present @ChampionsLeague season (seven video games), equalling his report for a single season within the competitors reached final season with #ManCity (additionally 5 targets in seven video games). Scratch. pic.twitter.com/cq0yjr5lxE
— OptaJose (@OptaJose) January 21, 2025