After Bayer Leverkusen’s tough 4-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, manager Xabi Alonso reflected on a game that started with promise but ultimately unraveled in the second half. Despite a positive start, Leverkusen struggled to maintain their intensity and were unable to match Liverpool’s efficiency and firepower.
“I think that in the first half, we were pretty good,” Alonso commented. “In the second half, they weren’t so strong initially, but we couldn’t keep the ball well or find the right positions. Our intensity in defense dropped, and the second goal was hard for us. The result is painful; the performance is more painful.”
Alonso acknowledged that a loss at Anfield wasn’t unexpected, given Liverpool’s quality, but the 4-0 scoreline stung. “To lose 4-0 is not nice,” he admitted. “They are a top, top team, and they punished us. It was a pity we couldn’t hold 1-0 for 15 to 20 minutes longer. They did it against Brighton, and they did it against us.”
For Alonso, the game was a chance to test Leverkusen’s resilience, and although his side showed glimpses of their potential, Liverpool’s quality ultimately took over. “We were ready to come here and give our best. We did okay for some parts, but the game changed in 20 minutes. Liverpool are strong. We lacked some power and consistency,” he said, accepting the defeat with a sense of respect for Liverpool’s performance.
Alonso also expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he received on his return to Anfield, where he once starred as a player. “I will try to separate the game and the pain from the result from the feelings of coming back and having love. I’m really thankful to have that reception.”
Assessing Liverpool’s current form, Alonso believes they have built a strong, balanced squad this season. “It’s early to tell, but I can see that Liverpool have a very good balance, a very complete team. They work with all 11 players, and they have the power to hold a clean sheet, which is important in the Champions League. In the Premier League, let’s see, but it’s looking good.”
As Leverkusen move forward, Alonso hopes to build on the lessons from the defeat and continue competing at the top level, using this experience as motivation to refine his team’s consistency and resilience.
