Tue Dec 03 19:15:39 UTC 2024: ## Leverkusen Faces Bayern in German Cup Clash: Alonso Eyes Upset

**Munich, Germany** – Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is undeterred by Bayern Munich’s recent Bundesliga draw against Borussia Dortmund, focusing instead on Tuesday’s crucial German Cup last-16 clash at the Allianz Arena. While Bayern’s seven-game winning streak ended with a 1-1 tie, Alonso anticipates a significantly different challenge in the cup competition.

“It’s a different game, and it’s in Munich,” Alonso stated at a press conference. He expects a fierce contest against a Bayern side that, under new coach Vincent Kompany, leads the Bundesliga by four points and has revitalized their Champions League campaign.

Despite Bayern’s dominance, Alonso sees the cup tie as a unique opportunity. “The Cup is one game, and anything can happen,” he said, calling the Allianz Arena match a “final” for his team. Leverkusen, currently third in the Bundesliga, will be without key striker Victor Boniface, mirroring Bayern’s absence of top scorer Harry Kane. However, Alonso expressed confidence in the form of striker Patrik Schick, who recently scored the winner against Union Berlin and a hat-trick against Heidenheim.

“Patrik is in a top moment,” Alonso confirmed, highlighting Schick’s contributions beyond just goals. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of Germany’s top clubs.

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