photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images |
by Anthony J. Merced
A spirited effort couldn't topple the mighty Real Madrid as RB Leipzig fell 1-0 at Red Bull Arena on Tuesday evening in the round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League. Heading to Madrid, they are one goal behind and will need to climb a seemingly insurmountable mountain in order to continue in the competition.
"We had chances," said head coach Marco Rose after the game." We started the game well and scored a goal that should have counted. That's tough at this level, but we still stuck with it and did our jobs."
Leipzig controlled possession and goal-scoring opportunities but were unable to find the back of the net. A first half goal was wiped off the scoreboard due to an offside call that haunted the club for the remainder of the game. A 48th minute goal by Brahim Diaz was the difference, as well as a stellar performance by Madrid backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin.
The lack of goalscoring is something that has haunted Leipzig in 2024. They have controlled games but found themselves missing out on points because of failed conversions. This has left them on the verge of being eliminated from the Champions League and has them potentially missing out on the top four in the Bundesliga.
"Our approach will not change," said Rose. "Our performances aren't translating into results at the moment, but we shouldn't fall into the role of victim now. Instead take advantage of our opportunities again. We can take a lot of positives things with us."
Leipzig will return to Bundesliga play this weekend against Borussia Monchengladbach with a win being much needed. From there they will face the faltering Bayern Munich and will need points to prove they still belong amongst the elite in Germany.
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