Bayer Leverkusen, under manager Xabi Alonso, celebrated a thrilling 3-2 triumph over Cologne in the DFB-Pokal quarter-finals, showcasing resilience as they came from behind. Patrik Schick's last-minute equalizer took the match to extra time, where Victor Boniface secured the win. Schick's impressive performance, marking his 20th goal of the season, highlighted his status among club legends. After previously defeating Bayern Munich, Leverkusen is poised to defend their title, facing Stuttgart next. Alonso's successful start as a manager is notable, having won all his first 10 DFB-Pokal matches, only the third to do so since 2000.
Alonso said: I am satisfied to have reached the semi-final. It was a very tough game against a very good opponent. But we showed a good reaction.
Schick's brace took him to 20 goals for the season, becoming just the fourth Leverkusen player to hit that mark in multiple campaigns.
Having knocked out Bayern Munich in the round of 16 before Christmas, the current holders have every chance of retaining their trophy in May.
Alonso became only the third manager since the turn of the millennium to win each of his first 10 matches in the DFB-Pokal.
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