By Oliver Trust

BERLIN, April 12 (Xinhua) -- It appears like a challenging tightrope walk for Bayer Leverkusen to move between its title opportunities.

One game away from national glory and the first league title in the club's history secured by a win against Bremen this Sunday, the German Cup final is waiting on May 25 while a 2-0 win over West Ham is opening doors for dreams in the UEFA Europa League.

While fans already celebrated all three titles in chants and on posters, Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso only allowed himself a shy smile.

"Yes, we came far and opportunities are great, but we are not there yet," the Spaniard said while turning to a sterner facial expression.

Alonso, after 42 unbeaten games, indicated celebrations will be allowed this Sunday, but "when we make it, there is more to come."

"A little bit of celebrations are ok, but that's it," he added ahead of the second leg in the Europa League against West Ham on Thursday next week in a delicate away encounter.

The two-time Champions League winner indicated to continue a reluctant path, not knowing what the likely Bundesliga triumph will trigger in his player's minds.

While record Germany international and TV pundit Lothar Matthaeus called the Bayer coach and his team "mentality monsters", former Arsenal midfielder and Swiss international Granit Xhaka spoke about the "chance to write history".

There is reason enough to keep cool and not act with overdriven emotions at present. "There is already an unprecedented wave of euphoria around us, that's great to see but it is a reminder for us to stay tuned."

The Europa League final, which Leverkusen are aiming at, takes place on May 22 in Dublin, only three days ahead of the German Cup final, roughly four weeks after the Bundesliga is most likely secured.

Nevertheless, Leverkusen's triple chance is attracting attention, and Alonso's way of dealing with the nearby success is triggering admiration.

"He is the one setting up all this; he is the builder of Leverkusen's uprise. Showing strong nerves is what he teaches aside from tactical variability and hunger for success," Matthaeus said.

With the league game against Werder Bremen this Sunday, Leverkusen are only one victory away from meeting Juventus’ unbeaten record of the century between May 2011 and May 2012 when running 43 unbeaten games.

While the clubs calling to wear club shirts at school is showing effect as classrooms seem decorated in Bayer's colors, strict plans for league title celebrations have been set up.

A motorcade through the city's streets is scheduled and the team is expected to light up sparklers on the club-owning companies' compound.

"But there won't be any players celebrating outside in the city," the club announced. Enditem

Related

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)