Bayer Leverkusen’s CEO has expressed his frustration over the playing conditions at Arminia Bielefeld’s stadium after their surprising victory over the Bundesliga champions in the DFB-Pokal semi-finals.
Despite taking the lead early in the match, Leverkusen ultimately fell to Arminia, who have now eliminated four Bundesliga teams in the competition this season. Arminia, currently in the third division, will face either Stuttgart or RB Leipzig in the final.
While acknowledging Arminia’s deserved victory, Leverkusen’s CEO criticized the lack of watering on the pitch before the game, calling for a penalty to be imposed by the DFB. However, Arminia’s sporting director and head coach defended their decision not to water the pitch, stating that it was unnecessary and could have disadvantaged them.
Leverkusen’s head coach Xabi Alonso was gracious in defeat, congratulating Arminia on their performance and emphasizing the need for his team to regroup and focus on their upcoming Bundesliga matches.
Despite the disappointment of their Pokal exit, Leverkusen remains determined to compete in the league and continue their pursuit of success. They will face Heidenheim in their next match, aiming to close the gap on league leaders Bayern Munich.