David Wagner: This game will help our development

Despite a 3-0 lead, Schalke had a nervy ending in their DFB-Pokal win on Tuesday night at Arminia Bielefeld (29/10). They eventually got over the line with a 3-2 win to book their place in the last 16. Both coach and players were relieved after the final whistle.

DFB-Pokal

29.10.19, 23:44

David Wagner

David Wagner:

The end to this game came as a surprise after the first 70 minutes – we played really, really well in the first half. We had so many good chances and should have had a greater lead earlier on. We wanted to see the game out in the second half – which we did until the 70th minute – and also try and add a fourth goal if we could. We didn’t manage that and Bielefeld did what they can do to teams. We definitely got a bit lucky tonight. Fortune favours the brave and we were brave tonight. Nevertheless, it was a deserved win as the first half was excellent. We are continuing to development and tonight’s game will help us to do that as the lads will now know that a 3-0 lead needs to be taken seriously as one goal can quickly change the complexion of a game. We will speak about all 90 minutes of the game, not just the last 20. The only thing that really matters in the cup is getting through – and we earned our place in the next round tonight.

Uwe Neuhaus:

Obviously I’m disappointed about the first half. Schalke showed the difference in class between the sides. We wanted to find a way back in to the game and played with more caution. We started to believe again after our first goal and felt right in the game after the second. We wanted our fans to enjoy the game and we hope they went home happy despite the result.

Ozan Kabak:

I’m happy that I was able to make my first start for Schalke. I’d like to thank the coach for giving me this chance. We played very well in the first 70 minutes, but then we conceded twice too easily. Bielefeld played very well in the last 20 minutes. I am happy with my performance. I will show the coach how good I am.

Alexander Nübel:

When we conceded the first goal, it was clear to me that this game could be another close one, especially with our track record. This ended up being the case. I’m happy that we made it to the next round, but we didn’t play our best football in the last 20 minutes. We were too passive and didn’t look to go forward with the ball anymore. Our first 60 minutes were very good. We were very prepared for a tough game.

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