Bayer Leverkusen vs Mainz: Granit Xhaka Fools Everyone With Cheeky Celebration

• Bayer Leverkusen vs Mainz ended in a 2-1 win for Alonso's men
• Granit Xhaka sparked reactions with his cheeky goal celebration
• The midfielder opened the scoring for the hosts with a wonder goal

Granit Xhaka sent the Bayer Leverkusen camp into panic with his cheeky goal celebration while in action against Mainz on Friday night.

The former Arsenal star was part of Leverkusen's team that hosted Mainz at the BayArena for the Bundesliga clash.

Xhaka needed just three minutes to open the scoring for his side, with the Swiss ace breaking the deadlock with a stunner.

According to SPORTbible, the ball dropped to him outside the area off a deflected shot, before he curled it home with a beautiful effort.

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Xhaka fools everyone with cheeky celebration

There was an immediate cause for concern in the Leverkusen camp after Xhaka appeared to have picked up an injury shortly after his opener.

In a viral video shared on X, the Swiss international can be seen clutching his hamstring while celebrating.

However, it later emerged that he had fooled everyone as this was just an act.

The ex-Gunners skipper went on to perform a dance celebration, with his teammates, including Jeremie Frimpong joining him, much to the relief of his teammates and coaching staff.

Meanwhile, Xhaka's opener was short-lived as Dominik Kohr equalised for the visitors four minutes later, with both teams heading into the break level.

However, Robert Andrich bagged the winner for Xabi Alonso's men in the 68th minute as Mainz ended the match with 10 men after Jessic Ngankam was shown a red card with 10 minutes left on the clock.

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Leverkusen's win in the match stretched their lead on top of the Bundesliga table to 11 points.

Alonso dismisses Real Madrid rumours

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Bayer Leverkusen director, Simon Rolfes rubbishing reports linking Alonso with Real Madrid when current manager, Carlo Ancelotti leaves.

The Spaniard spent five years at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, winning La Liga and the Champions League, and he ended as one of the best midfielders of his generation.