Xabi Alonso admits Leverkusen were ‘put to the test’ by Milan: “An important step”

Xabi alonso has admitted that his Bayer Leverkusen side were given a tough test by AC Milan last night before they eventually emerged 1-0 victory in the Champions League clash.

Milan were always going to be given a real examination by the team that won the Bundesliga without losing a game last season and scored 144 goals, but ultimately they can perhaps feel a bit unlucky not to have got something from the game.

Leverkusen were well on top in the first half and Mike Maignan was forced into several good saves, then after Victor Boniface’s opening goal in the 51st minute the Rossoneri really sprung into life and began peppering their hosts, but the equaliser never came.

Alonso spoke to Sky at the end of the match to reflect on what was an entertaining game to say that there was only one goal in it, and his comments were relayed by MilanNews.

“Milan put us to the test, our first 60 minutes were very good. At the end we were tired from Saturday’s match, but we showed spirit and character,” he said.

“In the Champions League you have to know how to suffer and fight, show team spirit. This is an important step for us. We lacked something on a physical level, but I saw a serious match and I’m satisfied.”