Bayer Leverkusen make history, Liverpool, Arsenal ...

Bayer Leverkusen make history, Liverpool, Arsenal in slumping defeats

Oscar J Jeke

ZIM NOW REPORTER

For thousands of Zimbabweans and millions others across the world who were watching European football on their screens last night, the drama and celebrations that took turns on the same night, it was a night to remember.

Punters who placed their bets for English Premiership sides Liverpool and Arsenal would want to forget the night as quickly as possible.

Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, who are yet to taste defeat this season, won their first league title in style at the Bay Arena, with five games to spare, while at the other end of Europe, Liverpool and Arsenal took home defeats to Crystal Palace and Aston Villa respectively.

Xavi Alonso’s men thumped Werder Bremen five nil.

The home fans invaded the pitch as the referee blew the last whistle in a match that ended Bayern Munich’s 11-year dominance.

In his pre-match interview, Alonso said the focus was on the match and celebrations would come later.

“It’s special that we have the chance to become champions. But to do that we want to be focused and perform with our quality and mentality. We want to continue to perform consistently, we want to play well. But first we have to prepare well and with respect for the opposition,” Alonso said.

Meanwhile on the other end, Arsenal and Liverpool, both recorded 0-2 and 0-1 home defeats to Aston Villa and Crystal Palace respectively, putting Manchester City in the running for a fourth consecutive title.

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta, speaking after the defeat admitted that the loss was forthcoming but his side has to show resilience in their next fixture, which is a Champions League clash against Bayern Munich.

“The moment is now, after this blow, to show how we react. We have the perfect opportunity on Wednesday night.

“It was going to happen at some stage (the loss). Now we have to show what we are made of,” said Arteta.

For now the punters will wait for other encounters, and hope to recover while Liverpool and Arsenal supporters also hope their teams will regroup from the loss and challenge for honours.

Bayer Leverkusen fans, meanwhile will continue to celebrate for as long as their energy will allow.