2024-05-10 07:41:37
Sharp criticism from Leverkusen coach
“That’s not good for football”
Updated May 10, 2024 – 7:24 a.mReading time: 2 min.
Xabi Alonso speaks about a controversial scene in the semi-final second leg against AS Roma, which could have had serious consequences – and finds clear words.
Ecstasy in Leverkusen: 2-2 in the semi-final second leg of the Europa League against AS Roma, once again scoring in the last second, avoiding the first defeat of the season – and above all: reaching the final. Actually, there was only reason for the Werkself to celebrate after the game on Thursday evening. Actually.
After the game, Bayer coach Xabi Alonso found clear words for the referee’s controversial decision: “It’s not good for football,” said the Spaniard on RTL. And further: “I don’t understand giving this penalty with the help of the VAR.” It was about the penalty that led to the interim 0-2 from Leverkusen’s point of view, so everything was open again and Bayer were shaking for the moment.
The 63rd minute in the Bayarena: When the Romans take a corner, the ball flies to Leverkusen’s Adam Hložek’s raised hand in the hustle and bustle of the penalty area. But: The game continues for now, despite complaints from the guests. The ongoing VAR check only becomes apparent at the next interruption. Referee Danny Makkelie looks at the scene – and decides on a penalty. Rome’s Leandro Paredes safely converted the penalty flat to the left, unstoppable for Leverkusen’s goalkeeper Matěj Kovář.
But the outcome of the game is known: Leverkusen came back – once again this season -, managed to score the next goal, prevented their first defeat of the season with a goal from Josip Stanišić in the seventh minute of stoppage time and finally made their participation in the final perfect.
After his criticism, Alonso was again satisfied with his team’s performance: Ultimately, the penalty “didn’t matter. We showed great personality after this goal. We totally deserved the draw.”