Leverkusen's Title Defense Stumbles in Bremen Draw

Bayer Leverkusen's title defense has hit a roadblock after they dropped more points in a 2-2 draw at Werder Bremen on Saturday. Despite taking the lead twice, Leverkusen was unable to hold on to their advantage, conceding an equalizer in the 90th minute.

Last season, Leverkusen's remarkable unbeaten run to the Bundesliga title saw them drop only 12 points. However, under new coach Xabi Alonso, they have already lost nine points in just eight games. Despite the setbacks, Alonso remains optimistic about his team's chances.

"Now in October, it's too early," Alonso said. "We want to be more consistent and when we get to that level, we will pick up more points. Anything can happen in the table... there's too many matches to come."

While Leverkusen's attacking prowess remains evident, their defense has been a cause for concern. They have conceded 15 goals in eight games, compared to just 24 in 34 games last season. Alonso acknowledged the need for improvement.

"We want the feeling that we can control the game, that we don't give away chances to the opponent," Alonso said. "We didn't do that well today. We gave Bremen the chances and made it too easy -- it's not good and I'm of course not satisfied."

Midfielder Granit Xhaka echoed Alonso's sentiments, expressing frustration at Leverkusen's inability to close out the match.

"If you don't kill the game, you concede -- it's very simple in football," Xhaka said. "It should not be possible that we go in front twice and still don't win the game. It's not enough like this -- we need to see the reality at the moment."

Despite the setbacks, Leverkusen remains within striking distance of league leaders RB Leipzig, sitting five points behind. With plenty of matches remaining, Alonso and his team will be determined to turn things around and mount a serious title challenge.

Tags: #BayerLeverkusen, #XabiAlonso, #Bundesliga, #TitleDefense, #WerderBremen