Schalke go home disappointed, but still positive

I always try to remain positive, which is why I’m pleased with my team’s efforts tonight,” explained Domenico Tedesco. Christian Heidel also praised the team: “We played very well tonight and dominated the game for a long time. I think we dealt with the atmosphere very well,” said the 55-year-old.

Head coach and sporting director both stated that the team should be taking their chances better though. “The only that was missing for a perfect evening was a goal,” said Tedesco. Heidel added: “We had six or seven clear-cut chances. Only one team should have won this game. You don’t see an away team create that many chances in the Champions League that often. We are going home slightly disappointed, but will still remain positive.”

Praise for Nübel’s performance

One Schalke player was particularly pleased after the final whistle. Alexander Nübel made his Champions League debut in the Türk Telekom Stadium and managed to keep a clean sheet as well. “I was really looking forward to the game beforehand and managed to enjoy the evening,” stated the keeper, who was in the team for the injured Ralf Fährmann. “Alex played excellently, although I thought he would anyway,” confirmed Heidel. “He is a good goalkeeper, who will fully believe in. I’m very pleased that he managed to keep a clean sheet and play so well.”

Benjamin Stambouli also received special praise from the sporting director: “It was special the way he played, especially considering it was first game back from a long injury-enforced absence,” remarked Heidel. “We had missed his ability and personality in the last few weeks; it’s great that he’s back playing again.”

A great honour for Stambouli

The Frenchman was equally delighted to be back from his ligament injury. “It was amazing to be able to make my comeback in such a game,” said the defender, who took over the captaincy with Ralf Fährmann and Naldo both missing. He also added: “I am very proud to have led the team tonight. It’s a great honour for me to be able to captain a great team like Schalke.”

Stambouli didn’t just take over the leadership role on the field, but also off it after the game. “In the changing rooms a number of players were disappointed that we didn’t get the win, but I reminded them that no team has won in Istanbul now for over a year and a half,” he said. “We can be pleased with our performance and can definitely build on it now. As a team we worked really well; something we need to do consistently.”