Picture Credit: X
Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka pulled a hilarious injury prank after scoring a goal in a clash against Mainz. Xhaka hammered a stunning goal in the third minute of the game, giving his side an early lead at Bay Arena on Saturday, February 24 (IST). The Swiss international pulled a brilliant left-foot stunner from outside the area which led the ball moving past rival keeper Robin Zentner, and hit the net in the top corner. The entire stadium erupted in joy, along with Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso.
However, the celebrations were cut short as the former Arsenal star clutched his left hamstring, leaving all his teammates and officials worried. Things weren’t as they appeared to be as the 31-year-old proceeded to do a dance move with Jeremie Frimpong. He was then joined by his teammates, who mockingly grabbed their legs. Alonso was quick enough to realise that he was pranked and smiled at what just happened.
Bayer Leverkusen set new German football record with unbeaten streak of 33 games
Hosts Leverkusen set up a new German record as they moved past Mainz with a 2-1 win on Saturday. As Robert Andrich took his side to another victory, the Bundesliga leaders set a new record with an unbeaten streak of 33 games. The victory took them 11 points clear of Bayern Munich for their first ever Bundesliga title. After the game, Andrich told DAZN, “We have to be honest, and say we didn’t play a great game.”
He added, “We were lucky to win but we won’t complain about the three points.” Notably, Leverkusen have won 29 games and ended with four draws this season, breaking the record of Hansi Flick’s Bayern set between 2019 and 2020. After the game, coach Alonso said, “I don’t care about records, but before they happen, but once they happen, I am really proud.”
