Leverkusen Clinch German Cup Double with 10-Man Victory

Bayer Leverkusen capped off a remarkable season by securing the German Cup, defeating second-division Kaiserslautern 1-0 in a hard-fought final in Berlin. The victory marks the club's second trophy of the campaign, having already clinched the Bundesliga title in April.

Granit Xhaka's stunning long-range strike in the 16th minute proved to be the decisive moment. However, Leverkusen's triumph was overshadowed by the dismissal of Odilon Kossounou late in the first half, leaving them to battle with 10 men for the remainder of the match.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, Leverkusen displayed resilience and determination, holding on to their slender lead. Kaiserslautern, who were aiming to become the first non-top-flight club to lift the Cup since 1992, pushed hard for an equalizer but lacked the cutting edge to break down Leverkusen's resolute defense.

Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso praised his team's spirit and fighting qualities. "To win like that at the end, we showed our team spirit. We fought hard, we did it for everyone, the fans, the club," he said.

Alonso also received plaudits from his opposing coach, Friedhelm Funkel, who was managing his final game before retiring. "To go through the Bundesliga season unbeaten, it's madness. That he could flick that switch in his first year, is incredible. I think he'll win many, many titles."

Leverkusen's triumph is a testament to their impressive season, which saw them go unbeaten in the Bundesliga and reach the final of the Europa League. The German Cup victory doubles the club's trophy tally in their history, having previously won the competition in 1993 and the UEFA Cup in 1988.

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