Obasi focuses on positives following Schalke exit
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
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Chinedu Obasi told UEFA.com he was thankful for an "amazing" UEFA Champions League experience after FC Schalke 04's campaign was ended by Real Madrid CF.
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FC Schalke 04's European campaign may have drawn to a close at the Santiago Bernabéu, yet their players were focusing on the positives of the experience of facing one of the tournament favourites, Real Madrid CF. Chinedu Obasi was soaking up the atmosphere as the German side exited with their "heads held high" according to Tim Hoogland. Goalkeeper Ralf Fährmann is already planning to return next term.
Chinedu Obasi, Schalke forward
We knew it was going to be tough, especially after the 6-1 loss in the first leg. We did our best tonight. It was amazing [to play at the Santiago Bernabéu]. The pitch was great and the atmosphere was special. I really appreciated being able to play in such an atmosphere and with other players like [Cristiano] Ronaldo.
Our coach wanted us to play according to his tactics and to give a good account of ourselves. Considering the injuries we have and the young players coming in, I think we did a good job.
My best memory from the tournament was my comeback game in Romania [against FC Steaua Bucureşti last November]. That was my first match after being out for a long time with a serious injury. I really appreciate the fact that I still have the opportunity to play at the highest level of football.
With the likes of Bayern München and Barcelona still in the tournament, I think it's going to be tough [for Madrid to win it], but who knows? All teams have bad days.
Tim Hoogland, Schalke defender
We wanted to exit the competition with our heads held high and I think we managed to do that. Our first half performance was good and we even created several chances to score. The UEFA Champions League chapter is over for us this season but we have nothing to be ashamed off. Ronaldo and [Gareth] Bale are world-class players. It was a great experience to play against them.
Ralf Fährmann, Schalke goalkeeper
We showed good character in the first half, considering this tie was already decided. The goal we conceded to make the game 2-1 was unfortunate for us; then our game was over. Madrid certainly didn't give it 100% today. I now hope that we can qualify for next year's Champions League and maybe we will get another opportunity to play here.
