The Magical Season of Xabi Alonso's Leverkusen
Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen has wrapped up an almost perfect season in the Bundesliga, claiming their first German championship title and ending the so-called 'Vicekusen curse' without losing a single match. They now have the chance to add the Europa League and Pokal titles to their triumphs.
The final hurdle to becoming the first unbeaten champions in Bundesliga history was cleared this Saturday with a 2-1 victory over Augsburg.
Xabi Alonso mentioned that while he always believed the team had the potential for a great season, the possibility of winning the Bundesliga only started to seem real as they progressed through the matches.
What's remarkable about Leverkusen's season isn't just the victories when things were going well, but their ability to bounce back when facing challenges.
Leverkusen has saved many points in the final moments of matches. Josip Stasinic's goal for the 2-2 draw against Roma in the Europa League semifinal return leg in the 97th minute was the fourteenth goal Leverkusen scored in added time this season.
These last-gasp goals have been crucial in maintaining their unbeaten run, making Leverkusen virtually unstoppable this season.