Leverkusen's unbeaten streak faces ultimate test against struggling Wolfsburg

Head coach Xabi Alonso, acknowledging the hurdles of a taxing return from Baku on Thursday, emphasizes the critical need for squad depth to secure victory.

The drama unfolded on Thursday as Qarabag shocked Leverkusen with a 2-0 lead in the Europa League Last 16 first-leg tie. A lacklustre first half left Leverkusen's unbeaten record hanging by a thread. Yet, characteristic of Alonso's resilient squad, Florian Wirtz and Patrik Schick orchestrated a late comeback, salvaging a 2-2 draw.

Now, Die Werkself face an immediate challenge against Wolfsburg. Alonso, addressing the potential impact of the gruelling journey, stated, "We don't have much time to prepare, and a long journey back from Baku. We have a tough opponent, and we need good energy." The demanding away trip from Europe further compounds the physical and mental toll on Leverkusen's squad.

Despite the obstacles, Alonso remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of reflection and improvement. "Our goal is to play good football and to achieve a deserved victory. We have enough fresh players for Sunday. We need the whole squad," he asserted, highlighting the team's commitment to continuous improvement.

Wolfsburg, under the helm of Niko Kovac, face their own challenges, having failed to secure a victory in 2024 with six draws and two losses. The pressure on Kovac is palpable, with speculations about his job security swirling. The team's descent to 13th in the Bundesliga table, with an eight-point buffer from relegation, intensifies the urgency for a turnaround.

A win for Leverkusen this weekend would not only extend their unbeaten streak but also solidify their 10-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga, with only nine games remaining. The clash promises to be a test of endurance, strategy, and resilience as Leverkusen strive to maintain their dominance in the league.

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