Bayer Leverkusen's 35-match unbeaten streak in Bundesliga comes to an end after loss to RB Leipzig

The stoppage-time magic has run out for Bayer Leverkusen as a 3-2 loss to RB Leipzig saw their 35-match unbeaten streak in Bundesliga play come to an end on Saturday. A brace from Lois Openda was too much for Leverkusen to overcome despite scoring two goals in the first half of play. The loss is the first for Xabi Alonso's side in league play since losing away to VfL Bochum to close out the 2022-23 season on May 27, 2023.

This team has come a long way from that ending their drought for a Bundesliga title and also winning the DFB Pokal but now they'll be in Champions League while needing to stave off Bayen Munich atop the league. Alonso was able to keep his side together for the clashes incoming with Vincent Kompany and Bayern but this is a streak that had to end sometime.

Better to get it out of the way early in the season before Champions League play kicks off because then rotation will have to take charge. Playing eight matches in the league phase instead of six will stretch Leverkusen's depth to its limits forcing Alonso to prioritize competitions. 

He was able to do that while reaching the Europa League final last season but things are always magnified in Champions League play. It's the next frontier for Leverkusen to conquer as Alonso will be looking to start their next winning streak following the conclusion of the international break.