Interviews

Xabi Alonso optimistic after win over Roma in first leg: “I hope to celebrate next week.”

Andy Mattioli
Bayer Leverkusen's Spanish head coach Xabi Alonso is pictured before the UEFA Europa League semi final first leg football match between AS Roma and Bayer Leverkusen at the Olympic stadium on May 2, 2024 in Rome. (Photo by Alberto PIZZOLI / AFP) (Photo by ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty Images)

Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso expressed his delight with his team’s 0-2 victory over Roma in the first leg of the Europa League semifinal.

In his post-match press conference, Alonso stated, “We fought a lot, put in a great performance, a lot of discipline, strength, speed. For us all this means a lot but we still have a lot to do.”

“We had a chance to score the third goal, we played aggressively from the first minute, with a compact defense and counterattacks. We played an important attacking game, but we didn’t make the best of the opportunities we had. However, we are satisfied.”

“We still have plenty to worry about Roma. They could make a comeback in the return leg. But I’m happy, and I hope to be able to celebrate next week with the fans.”

Match Center

MatchDay 37
18 May 15:00
Roma
Milan
MIL