Bayer Leverkusen, who are hoping for just their second Bundesliga victory since September, must demonstrate that they can stay concentrated throughout the full match when they travel to VfL Bochum on Saturday.
After only one win in their last five games, the domestic double winners from the previous year have fallen to fourth place in the league with 16 points, seven points behind leaders Bayern Munich.
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“We have to become consistent in the game with our concentration and mentality,” coach Xabi Alonso told a press conference on Friday.
“That’s what we need to improve most. We want to be consistent in our way of playing but also our mentality and our focus. Every moment is important.
“It is not enough to play well over 80 minutes. We need it over the entire time with 100% presence on the pitch. If not then we make mistakes and mistakes at this high level are costly.”
In their Champions League match on Tuesday, Leverkusen dominated Liverpool for an hour before giving up four goals to lose 4-0.
In their last five Bundesliga games, they have only mustered four draws and one victory.
“We want to be consistent. We can do it better and tomorrow it is important to play well. We are prepared for all situations,” Alonso said.
Bochum, in last place with one point from nine matches, will be managed by new coach Dieter Hecking, who took over on Monday and is hoping to kick start their season.
“We know what to expect,” Alonso said.
“The intensity in Bochum, a new coach. They want to change the mood and mindset.
“But we are prepared. We know what to expect.”
“We have to know it is very important for us. Tomorrow there are no excuses for not playing well.
“We face a good opponent but we have to be prepared.”