Xabi Alonso: “We controlled the game well”

Bayer Leverkusen’s coach shared his satisfaction after his side picked a first win in three Bundesliga encounters.

Bayer Leverkusen return to winning ways thanks to two first-half goals against Holstein Kiel. In their first-ever Bundesliga trip to Kiel, Die Werkself’s boss adds another record to his name as he becomes the first coach to avoid defeat in 28 consecutive away Bundesliga games.

“We have developed a top mentality as you can see from this record. We were efficient and stable. And we want to continue like this,” said Alonso as he mentioned next weekend’s trip to third-placed Eintracht Frankfurt.

“We’re very happy with today’s result. We controlled the game well and dominated it, even though it wasn’t easy,” he said before praising the two goal scorers. “Patrik’s first goal was important to win this game. After the last two away draws, today’s win was even more important for us.

“Having Amine (Adli) back on the pitch is very important for everyone. His attitude and his qualities are super important for the team as we saw today. We’re very happy that he is available to us for the rest of the season.”