European Leagues

Bundesliga title close but race not over yet – Alonso

Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso insisted Friday it was “still too early” to talk about the Bundesliga title despite his team being 13 points clear at the top of the table.

Leverkusen can win their first ever Bundesliga title as early as next week, depending on the results of second-placed reigning champions Bayern Munich.

“In football anything can happen,” Alonso told reporters, saying “it’s still too early.”

“We are in a very good position. But we’re not talking about the title, we’re talking about the next opponent.”

Leverkusen play away at Union Berlin on Saturday at the same time as Bayern travel to mid-table Heidenheim.

Alonso’s side are closing in on glory in an incredible season, having also qualified for the German Cup final with a 4-0 home win over Fortuna Duesseldorf on Wednesday, which extended their unbeaten run to 40 games this season.

Alonso, who last week said he intended to stay at Leverkusen next season despite interest from Liverpool and Bayern Munich, said not only were the players focused on the next game, but the fans were not getting ahead of themselves with a potential treble in sight.

In 2002, Leverkusen were ahead in the league and had qualified for the finals of the German Cup and Champions League, but lost out on all three titles.

“The fans are intelligent and they can remember what happened in the past. They’ve got patience.

“We want to celebrate when we can celebrate. And now it is not the moment to celebrate, it’s the moment to work and to prepare.”

Alonso said striker Victor Boniface, who returned from injury to play for the first time in 2024 against Duesseldorf on Wednesday, would not start on Saturday.

“He could start, but we’ve decided not to play him from the beginning.

“It was good for him to play 25 or so minutes on Wednesday. We want to help him to come back properly and to feel good.

“We need him.”

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Raphael Onyedika reflects on first UCL Goal

Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika expressed his excitement after scoring his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.

Despite Brugge’s 3-1 loss, Onyedika couldn’t hide his pride in the achievement. “I don’t know how to put it, but it’s an amazing feeling to score my first goal in City’s stadium. I’m so proud,” the Nigeria international told Flashcore.com.

Onyedika acknowledged that while Brugge took the lead, they struggled after conceding. “We knew it would be difficult after we got the first goal; we were a bit sloppy. And when we conceded the first goal, they had more momentum and energy, so it was much more difficult for us because of our mistakes.”

The goal will surely be a memorable moment for the young midfielder as he continues his Champions League journey.

Premier League

David Raya doubtful for Arsenal’s clash against Manchester City

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that goalkeeper David Raya may miss the Gunners’ crucial Premier League fixture against Manchester City on Sunday.

Raya was absent from Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Girona in the Champions League, with Neto stepping in for his debut after joining on a season-long loan from Bournemouth.

Although Neto conceded the opening goal to Arnaut Danjuma in the 28th minute, Arsenal responded with Jorginho’s penalty and a spectacular goal by rising star Ethan Nwaneri.

Arteta did not provide specific details on Raya’s injury but noted, “He certainly could not play, and he’s injured, and that’s it. We’ll see how it improves.”

When asked whether Neto could continue in Raya’s absence, Arteta expressed confidence in the experienced goalkeeper, stating, “That’s why he’s here, to do that job… I’m very happy that he played and we won again.”

Arsenal will be hoping Raya recovers in time for the vital clash as they look to maintain their strong position in the league.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Tella celebrates first Champions League goal in Bayer Leverkusen win

Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has joyfully celebrated his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal after netting in his team’s 2-0 triumph over Sparta Prague on Wednesday night.

The Nigeria international struck in the 64th minute, sealing the victory and helping Leverkusen advance to the Round of 16. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the former Burnley star, who was playing in England’s second-tier league just two years ago.

Taking to social media after the match, Tella shared his excitement with a heartfelt message accompanied by a photo from the game:

“Dreams come true,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso praised Tella’s performance as the team comfortably secured their place in the next stage of Europe’s elite competition. Tella’s rapid rise continues to inspire fans and players alike as he establishes himself on the European football stage.