A real statement of intent

RB LEIPZIG 1-2 MAINZ 05

Jonny Burkardt: “We did not start well today. We were too hesitant and afforded them too much space, but then came out much better for the second half. Everyone can see that we have potential to get results if we do the basics right. The decisive thing today was how we coped with Leipzig on the break as they often look to hit you in transition. We gained confidence after levelling things up. We were able to play in behind them more effectively and everybody wanted to get on the ball, which was really telling. I was able to make more of an impact after Nadiem and Kaishu took more of the workload off with their running and pressing. There are now 10 games to go and we are really pleased to have another win under our belts.”

Nadiem Amiri: “It was unbelievably annoying to concede so early on but then I see our reaction to that as a real statement of intent from Mainz 05. We pressed on and looked to get back into the game, never letting our heads drop. It is almost hard to put into words how we churned out this result today which has kind of been the case for the past few weeks. My job today was a clear one: provide structure to our play and take the game to our opponent, which I think I was able to do well. We certainly haven't achieved anything at this stage and I think every Bundesliga fan is aware of how far there is to go.”

Anthony Caci: “The first 15 minutes were tough going but after that we started to win more balls and grew into the game. It was clear to see from our second-half performance that we were the better side and deserved to win. It was important that we played with confidence and everyone asked for the ball.”

Niko Bungert: “We began poorly but improved as the game went on. We looked more confident on the ball after the opening 20 minutes. We then turned up the heat in terms of our pressing after the restart which upped the tempo of the game. To dominate a Champions League side in the way that we did today makes me really proud.”