Borussia Dortmund dealt Bayer Leverkusen a heavy 4-2 defeat on Sunday, souring Xabi Alonso's final home match in charge while bolstering their bid for a Champions League spot.
Leverkusen had made a strong start, taking the lead through Jeremie Frimpong, but were soon pegged back and overrun. Goals from Julian Brandt, Julian Ryerson, Karim Adeyemi and Serhou Guirassy completed a powerful comeback from the visitors.
Alonso, who guided Leverkusen to a domestic double last season, confirmed on Friday that he would step down at the end of the campaign, with widespread expectation that he will take over at Real Madrid.
Despite the result, the atmosphere at the BayArena was one of appreciation, with fans applauding their departing manager and displaying banners that read "Danke Xabi" in tribute.
"It was an emotional day, and this club will remain close to my heart," Alonso said. "I'll forget the scoreline soon enough."