Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has offered his verdict on Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League home win against Inter Milan.
Speaking to Sky Sport via FCInterNews, the highly-rated Spanish manager highlighted Die Werkself’s great desire to take three points against the Nerazzurri.
In all fairness, Leverkusen deserved three points.
They were the better team, though it takes nothing away from Inter’s commendable defensive effort.
However, Simone Inzaghi’s charges were atypically quiet in attack, failing to create clear-cut chances.
Indeed, it was a rare occasion to see the reigning Scudetto holders finish the game without an attempt on target.
On the other hand, Leverkusen showed a genuine ambition to score, though they left it late to beat Yann Sommer.
Nordi Mukiele netted a 90th-minute winner, taking advantage of havoc inside Inter’s six-yard box to catapult the Germans to victory.
Leverkusen’s performance naturally pleased Alonso, who seems on track to get his team back on the rails after a stuttering start.
Bayer Leverkusen Boss Congratulates Inter Milan After Pivotal Champions League Win
“I think we played a very mature and complete match,” Alonso said.
“Against a team like Inter, managing emotions is crucial because they are a dangerous side with multiple playmakers controlling the game.
“It required a significant mental effort, but we successfully dictated the play, created many opportunities, and conceded just one.”
Scoring late has been a common theme for Leverkusen under Alonso’s stewardship.
Indeed, Die Werkself scored more goals in second-half stoppages last season than any other team across Europe’s top-five leagues.
Xabi Alonso explained Leverkusen’s unique ability to grab last-gasp winners.
“Yes, we respect Inter a lot, but we wanted the victory,” he stated.
“We played our game with maturity and determination, and I believe our win was well-deserved.
“I always try to instill this mindset in my team: to attack until the very end.”
