Bastian Oczipka: We have to reward our performance with goals

“Of course it is a shame when the performance is not rewarded with goals or victories,” said Bastian Oczipka following the friendly match in Andalusia. The left back was still pleased with the team’s performance. “We played well. In the first half we had two clear chances to score and also in the second half a good spell with several opportunities.” The 30-year old indicated that one of the objectives is to improve the team’s build-up play. “Especially in the second half, we created some good moves.”

Full focus on Hannover

At the full time whistle in the Trofeo Antonio Puerta in Seville, the Royal Blues’ attention switched to the next task: Sunday’s trip to Hannover. “Of course, we want to pull away from the bottom end of the table as fast as possible,” said Oczipka. In the current situation, the main aim is not about playing attractive football, but getting the results.

The Royal Blues are not only using the international break to focus on their football, but also improve their fitness levels ahead of the final stretch of the season. Intensive training has helped to rebuild the self-belief that has been damaged by recent results. “We have to believe in ourselves when going into every duel, whether it is defensive or offensive,” said Oczipka, who also admitted that three points will boost the team’s self-confidence and that is the aim on Sunday.