In the prestigious Champions League, individuals showcase their exceptional skills and teamwork. - Slovak goalkeeper Martin Šlottbek issues warning: Avoid hoping for a mishap
Borussia Dortmund is struggling with the defeat in the Champions League final against Real Madrid. Determined to move on, national player Nico Schlotterbeck is focusing on a positive mindset and the upcoming European Championship.
"I hope I don't dwell too much on this defeat. I'm giving it my all," stated the 24-year-old. "I'm getting a lot of support from my family. I'm hoping for success at the tournament so I can celebrate something." The European Championship takes place in Germany in a few days.
The entire Dortmund team was disappointed with their performance against the 15-time winners of the European elite class. "We played almost the perfect game. It would have been perfect if we had at least capitalized on one of our many scoring chances," explained Dortmund's sports director Sebastian Kehl.
Despite dominating the game, Dortmund couldn't find a way to score and Real Madrid took advantage of the situation with goals from Dani Carvajal (74th minute) and Vinicius Junior (83rd).
The disappointment was deep-rooted. Kehl continued, "We were very close. I think we deserved it. The disappointment is really intense. We'll need a few days to process it." Although Dortmund's coach, Edin Terzic, expressed mixed feelings, he could at least recognize some positive aspects of the game.
"It's incredibly hard for me to find the right words right now, as I'm going through a lot of emotional turmoil. In one moment, I'm very proud of the performance. In the next moment, I feel disappointed and empty after the game," expressed the 41-year-old, reflecting on his first Champions League final.
A low-key exit for Marco Reus
Marco Reus, an icon of Borussia Dortmund, had a subdued farewell. Kehl shared his thoughts, "It was unfortunate that it was his last game for Dortmund today. We didn't want it any other way, to lift the Cup together with him. He deserved it." Reus, 35, wants to continue his career elsewhere.
There is still uncertainty about Mats Hummels' future. His contract will expire soon. Kehl stated, "We'll discuss this in the coming days and then make a decision."
