Bayer Leverkusen’s ability to score late goals is becoming a defining trait of the team. The recent match against Borussia Monchengladbach showcased this characteristic once again, as the defending Bundesliga champions clinched a dramatic 3-2 victory with a goal in the 11th minute of injury time. This knack for scoring crucial goals in the dying moments of a game has not only secured wins for the team but has also instilled a sense of resilience and belief within the players.
Midfielder Granit Xhaka emphasized the importance of mentality in achieving these late goals. He stated that the team’s DNA now includes a never-say-die attitude, where they continue to believe in their capabilities until the final whistle, regardless of how the match unfolds. This mental fortitude has undoubtedly played a significant role in Bayer Leverkusen’s success, allowing them to secure vital points in challenging situations.
Manager Xabi Alonso acknowledged the team’s tendency to score late goals but admitted that it is a challenging phenomenon to explain or influence. He attributed this trait to the mindset of the players, suggesting that their belief in themselves and their ability to keep fighting until the end are key factors in their late-game heroics. While this mentality has brought them success, Alonso also recognized the need for improvement in certain areas, such as defensive compactness and aggressiveness.
The match against Borussia Monchengladbach exemplified Bayer Leverkusen’s reliance on late goals to secure victories. Despite taking a 2-0 lead, they allowed their opponents to mount a comeback and equalize the score at 2-2. However, the team’s resilience shone through as they were awarded a penalty in stoppage time, ultimately converting it into a winning goal. This display of determination and composure under pressure is a testament to the character of the squad.
Areas for Growth
While Bayer Leverkusen’s ability to score late goals has been instrumental in their success, there are areas that require improvement. Manager Alonso highlighted the team’s occasional lack of compactness and passivity during certain phases of the game, suggesting that they need to be more aggressive and disciplined in their approach. Addressing these aspects could enhance the team’s overall performance and fortify their title defense in the Bundesliga.
Bayer Leverkusen’s proficiency in scoring late goals reflects a combination of mental strength, belief, and skill. While this trait has propelled them to victory on numerous occasions, there is still room for growth and refinement in certain areas. By maintaining their resilience and addressing their weaknesses, Bayer Leverkusen can continue to be a formidable force in the Bundesliga and beyond.