BOCHUM, Germany: German champions Bayer Leverkusen are ready to emerge as the first team in Bundesliga history not to lose throughout the season, said coach Xabi Alonso after beating VfL Bochum 5-0 early this morning.
Leverkusen, who are chasing three championships, easily beat Bochum, who saw Felix Passlack sent off in the 15th minute, extending their record without losing in all matches this season to 50 consecutive matches, with only one remaining in the Bundesliga.
Last week, Alonso’s side broke Benfica’s unbeaten record from 1963 to 1965 with a 2-2 draw with AS Roma that helped them reach the Europa League final.
This morning’s early win over Bochum meant they became the third team in Bundesliga history to remain undefeated in any home game throughout the season.
“After that red card it was definitely a different game for us,” Alonso said at a press conference.
“I am very satisfied with this decision. It is important for us. Now we have a great goal this Saturday to win the championship without any defeats. This has never happened before.”
Leverkusen, who face Atalanta in the Europa League final and face Kaiserslautern in the German Cup final later this month, host Augsburg at home in their final Bundesliga match where they also receive the league trophy for the first time.
“To receive the championship trophy at Leverkusen will definitely be very special,” said Alonso.
“The players were focused all season so for them it’s very special. I’m proud of them.”