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Karel Geraerts: Hard work, incredible atmosphere
Schalke head coach Karel Geraerts looked back on the 2-0 win in Aalen on Saturday (17/8) together with his opposite number Petar Kosturkov after the game at the post-match press conference. Captain Kenan Karaman and debutant Martin Wasinski also spoke to the media after the game.
Karel Geraerts:
The most important thing is that we reached the next round. It was hard work today – Aalen fought really well and were well organised too. It wasn’t easy at times because we couldn’t play the football we wanted to. We took the chances we got and kept things tight at the back, though we were lucky with our first goal. I’d like to say a massive thanks to our fans. They travelled around 600 kilometres to support us and the atmosphere was incredible.
Petar Kosturkov:
I’m happy with my team’s performance. We gave a good account of ourselves. Our aim was to play it long and look to win the second balls. We could have had a penalty on two separate occasions. We kept things pretty tight in the first half. It’s frustrating that their first goal was offside, but we can’t do anything about it now. We wanted to play with a bit more courage after the break. It was tough after their second goal and we didn’t have much energy left. Overall, FC Schalke 04 deserved to win the game.
Kenan Karaman:
The first round of the cup always has the potential for an upset. We took today’s game seriously and achieved our goal in the end. We need to remain patient against teams that sit back and then look to get forward at the right moments. I didn’t think I was offside when I scored my goal. I was lucky that there was no VAR in play today. Tobias Mohr’s goal sealed the victory for us. I’m pleased that a few of the younger players in the squad earned a deserved chance today. I’m also happy with my Man of the Match award. I’m sure I’ll find a nice place for the little trophy at home.
Martin Wasinski:
Our clear aim before the game was to reach the second round and we’ve done exactly that. I was so impressed by our fans travelling so far away from Gelsenkirchen to support us. It was amazing, I’m not used to that in Belgium. I’m proud to have made my competitive debut for S04. I will continue to work hard in training in the coming days and weeks to earn more appearances. I want to take the chances I’m given. I’m a young player and can still learn a lot.
