Bayer Leverkusen have equalled a 59-year-old European record as they stretched their unbeaten run in all competitions to 48 games.
Leverkusen equal Benfica’s record
Thrashed Frankfurt 5-1 to extend lead at top
Potentially five games left to go the whole season unbeaten
WHAT HAPPENED?
Xabi Alonso’s side hammered Eintracht Frankfurt 5-1 to equal the 59-year-old European record set by Benfica of 48 games undefeated in all competitions between December 1963 and February 1965 – as per Fabrizio Romano. Should Leverkusen avoid defeat in their next game against Roma in the Europa League semi-final, they will hold the longest unbeaten run in European football history.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Breaking the record would underline the incredible achievement that Alonso’s side have already secured this season. They have already wrapped up the Bundesliga, much to the frustration of Harry Kane and Bayern Munich, and are in the semi-final and final of the Europa League and DFB-Pokal, respectively. Leverkusen may end up winning three trophies without losing a single game this season.
DID YOU KNOW?
Leverkusen have just five games remaining if they are to go the entire season unbeaten. They face Roma on Thursday – having already secured a 2-0 win the first leg. Then they have two remaining Bundesliga games against VfL Bochum and Augsburg in the Bundesliga before facing 1. FC Kaiserslautern in the DFB-Pokal final. Should they defeat Roma they will play in the Europa League final on 22 May against Marseille or Atalanta.
WHAT NEXT FOR LEVERKUSEN?
Alonso will have his heart set on remaining undefeated for the entire season and will be dreaming of replicating the feat again next season. Leverkusen will be playing Champions League football and will be eager to test themselves against the biggest and best sides in Europe.
Goal.com
