In pictures: Leverkusen euphoric after remarkable Bundesliga triumph
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Bayer Leverkusen players, fans, and seemingly the whole city rejoiced after the club won its first Bundesliga title in its 120-year history on Sunday.
A comprehensive 5-0 victory over Werder Bremen confirmed Leverkusen’s triumph.
Once the celebrations die down, the Leverkusen players will turn their focus to completing the first unbeaten season in Bundesliga history, continuing their push for Europa League glory, and winning the DFB-Pokal final on May 25.
But for now, few will begrudge anyone associated with Leverkusen – and any neutrals watching their success from afar – enjoying the team capturing the Meisterschale.
Here are some standout images from the celebrations.
Fans began to pour onto the pitch after Florian Wirtz’s second goal. He notched a memorable hat-trick against Werder Bremen.
Fans were unsurprisingly emotional as their club strolled to a previously inconceivable Bundesliga title.
Smoke and flares contributed to an electric atmosphere.
Supporters couldn’t wait to stream onto the pitch.
A Werder Bremen player looks forlorn amid the joy.
The man who made the impossible possible, Xabi Alonso.
A bird’s-eye view following the final whistle.
Patrik Schick was caught up in the fans’ pitch invasion.
Time for selfies.
The balcony of Munich’s town hall where Bayern Munich traditionally celebrate their regular title wins, is empty.
Fans who weren’t fortunate enough to have a ticket celebrated across the city.
Leverkusen players soaked Alonso with beer in the post-match press conference.
The Leverkusen heroes later emerged in the stands with mocked-up versions of the Meisterschale.