- "We have to learn"
Miroslav Klose suffered a setback in his second-tier debut as trainer of 1. FC Nürnberg, losing 2-3 (2-1) to Karlsruher SC despite leading 2-0 at one point. In front of 30,707 spectators, the Franconian club, whose star is former national striker Klose, initially squandered their chances.
However, the outstanding three-time goalscorer Budu Siwsiwadse dealt the club a shock. "You have to accept when the opponent plays well," Klose told Sky TV. "We have to learn from every game, reduce our mistakes, and make the most of our ball possession. The chances were there."
Hat-trick for Siwsiwadse
After a Karlsruher pressure phase with a shot from Fabian Schleusener (17th minute) that hit the bar, the Nuremberg team was ruthless against goalkeeper Max Weiß. After a ball recovery by Danilo Soares, Kanji Okunuki (20th minute) scored from a pass by Lukas Schleimer to take the lead.
New club captain Robin Knoche (29th minute) then saved against Schleusener on the line. Florian Pick (31st minute) even increased the lead with a header. Just before half-time, the Georgian Euro participant Siwsiwadse (45+2) brought the KSC back into the game with a well-taken goal. "We made it too easy for him, all three goals are better to defend," Knoche commented.
"Be consistent"
After the break, the Nuremberg team was too passive and couldn't provide much relief against the attacking hosts. Siwsiwadse (73rd, 80th) was still not defended well in the penalty area and caused disappointment for Klose's team. "You have to be consistent, you have to win the duels in the final third and play the transition situations better," Knoche summarized.
Despite the lead, the Sky is filled with disappointment for Klose's team after two late goals allow a comeback by Siwsiwadse. Regaining possession and playing effectively in the final third are key areas for improvement as stated by both Klose and Knoche.
