“The more effective team won”

FSV head coach Bo Svensson had described his side’s clash with FC Bayern München as a “test of character” for his players ahead of the game. Despite the 3-1 defeat, it is arguable that Mainz’s players passed this test. The 05ers put up a strong fight after a tough start to the game, getting themselves back into the game with a goal before the break, whilst also deserving to score more goals in the second half.

The 05ers reaction following #M05FCB

Sporting director Martin Schmidt: “It’s a strange feeling because there was more to this game. We gave Bayern a helping hand with two of their three goals. They punish you for those kinds of things. On the other hand, we didn’t have much luck, especially with Bello’s effort from Danny’s cut-back when we were 2-1 down. That has to go in. If we made it 2-2, then maybe Bayern would’ve realised how tired they were. That’s where we wanted them – getting tired running around. However, we didn’t manage to do that as a result of inaccuracies or bad luck, as was the case with hitting the woodwork. Therefore, we weren’t able to get anything from the game today. It’s very hard to defend against this kind of quality for 90 minutes. We defended better in the second half. I don’t want to blame the team – everyone is trying hard and wants to be brave. The performances are getting better – we getting better by the game. The team is performing well and I’m convinced that we are also going to start picking up more points as a reward for such performances.”

Leo Barreiro: “It was really nice that the fans cheered us up after the game. It wasn’t the first time. When they see that we give 100% and work tirelessly to pick up three points, they are satisfied. We certainly didn’t get everything right today. The desire to implement the things that the coach asked of us wasn’t lacking – you can’t blame us in that regard. The fans’ support is great and we also need that. Together, we can get out of this situation. We had chances to get back into the game, even in the first half. Bayern were brutal. However, we didn’t give up, but luck wasn’t on our side today. It’s annoying and a bitter feeling that we were punished by Bayern.”

Stefan Bell: “It’s already a bitter feeling. That’s the case when you run forward in support and get such a good chance to score. I needed to slot the ball into the corner. I struck the ball well, but unfortunately it went wide. Then we defended, but we lost the ball immediately and their effort went in. That’s somewhat the story of the game. The more effective side won. Both sides had lots of chances, and the game was relatively well-balanced on the whole. We had good phases in possession and played courageously. We tried to press high as much as possible, but unfortunately you have to accept that Bayern are always able to play through the lines well. However, that’s the way we play at home, even against Bayern. We play with bravery.”