Leverkusen win at Hoffenheim a key test after losing to Leipzig says Alonso

SINSHEIM, Germany : Bayer Leverkusen passed their challenge to bounce back from a defeat in the Bundesliga with flying colours, coach Xabi Alonso said after their 4-1 victory at Hoffenheim on Saturday.

Victor Boniface scored twice and set up another goal as last season's domestic double winners recovered from their loss to RB Leipzig before the international break.

"It was an important test for us to not concede a second goal after going 2-0 up," said Alonso, whose team had lost 3-2 at home to Leipzig after going 2-0 in front.

"We reacted well and this time we controlled the game better and were more stable until the end. We know we will get our chances if we are patient and that is what we have to patiently work towards."

Leverkusen's defeat by Leipzig was their first in the Bundesliga in over a year after winning last year's title undefeated.

"We were ready today to show our highest level," said Alonso. "We were serious and very professional. Hoffenheim made it difficult for us in the 10 minutes before the break but we came back after halftime to show sufficient energy."

Leverkusen, who have six points from three games, kick off their Champions League campaign on Thursday at Feyenoord.