News Focus
- Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeneß promises his side will eventually overcome Bayern Munich after cup final loss
- VfB Stuttgart dominated periods of the DFB-Pokal final but failed to convert chances against the champions
- Harry Kane and Michael Olise praised for match-winning quality that decided the Berlin clash
- Goalkeeper Alexander Nübel receives emotional farewell amid expected summer departure
Sebastian Hoeneß has issued a defiant promise that VfB Stuttgart will eventually end Bayern Munich’s dominance, despite suffering DFB-Pokal final heartbreak in Berlin.
The Stuttgart boss watched his team push the Bundesliga champions hard during Saturday’s cup clash at the Olympiastadion. Although his players forced errors from Bayern and controlled large parts of the match, they could not find the back of the net when it mattered most.
Speaking after the defeat, Hoeneß admitted his disappointment. “The frustration is there, and I feel disappointed. We came here to win. For long spells we did the right things and won back possession many times. But we must blame ourselves for not taking advantage of those moments,” he said.
The coach singled out England captain Harry Kane and winger Michael Olise for their decisive contributions. The pair produced the moments of magic that secured victory for Bayern.
“It is tough for my players. Kane and Olise had brilliant moments again. As an opponent, you can only do so much against that quality,” Hoeneß explained.
He reserved special praise for Kane, describing the striker as the “complete package” and acknowledging Bayern’s excellent work. “You have to admit without envy that he is a fantastic player. Bayern are doing a fantastic job. But eventually we will crack Bayern, I know that,” he vowed.
Hoeneß also bid an emotional farewell to goalkeeper Alexander Nübel, who looks set to leave the club following another impressive season. The shot-stopper is owned by Bayern Munich and has been on loan at Stuttgart.
“Alex is a fantastic person and player. We have shared great moments together. We will miss him greatly. He is a player I have really enjoyed working with,” Hoeneß concluded.