Sebastian Rudy only has two games left at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim following the 2-1 defeat in Dortmund on matchday 32, having signed a contract with champions FC Bayern for the upcoming campaign. After the game with BVB, the Germany international explained the reasons that led to the defeat but also looked ahead with the season coming to an end.
Question: Mr. Rudy, Dortmund took the lead just four minutes into the game. How does one handle falling behind so quickly?
Sebastian Rudy: Obviously it was upsetting to start such an important match in that fashion. But we managed to put that behind us quite well, continued to play our football and pulled off a pretty good performance.
Question: The defeat was a set-back in terms of Hoffenheim’s ambitions to secure direct Champions League promotion. What is still possible for you this season?
Rudy: We no longer have it in our hands. On the other hand the margin is only two points. We have to be aware of that and make sure that we win our two remaining games. We are now hoping that Dortmund stumble, in which case we would be ready.
Question: The opening 20 minutes were highly emotional and the stadium was practically reaching a boiling point. What was missing for Hoffenheim to claim at least a point in Dortmund?
Rudy: It’s obviously difficult once you concede the opener in Dortmund just four minutes into the game. But in my opinion we managed to push Dortmund back into their own half. Not much came from them after the opener. They defended in a compact shape, making it very difficult to find an opening. For that our team deserves a compliment. If even Dortmund fall back and defend at home it says everything. It says that we are playing a good season.
Question: It is quite rare to see Dortmund stand so deep and even have Ousmane Dembélé get involved in defensive duties. What was your plan to overcome their defensive approach?
Rudy: I immediately noticed Dembélé following me around everywhere. I tried to pull him away from central areas, giving my team mates more space. Kevin Vogt was able to run at them with the ball a few times and then play a smart pass. It definitely didn’t influence our performance in a negative way.
Question: Did you expect Dortmund to be this aggressive in their tackles or were you surprised?
Rudy: We always have to be prepared for every situation. Furthermore, every player has to apply self-initiative and find a solution in these situations.
Question: Hoffenheim struggled to create chances. Why did you fail to find a breakthrough in the final third?
Sebastian Rudy only has two games left at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim following the 2-1 defeat in Dortmund on matchday 32, having signed a contract with champions FC Bayern for the upcoming campaign. After the game with BVB, the Germany international explained the reasons that led to the defeat but also looked ahead with the season coming to an end.
Question: Mr. Rudy, Dortmund took the lead just four minutes into the game. How does one handle falling behind so quickly?
Sebastian Rudy: Obviously it was upsetting to start such an important match in that fashion. But we managed to put that behind us quite well, continued to play our football and pulled off a pretty good performance.
Question: The defeat was a set-back in terms of Hoffenheim’s ambitions to secure direct Champions League promotion. What is still possible for you this season?
Rudy: We no longer have it in our hands. On the other hand the margin is only two points. We have to be aware of that and make sure that we win our two remaining games. We are now hoping that Dortmund stumble, in which case we would be ready.
Question: The opening 20 minutes were highly emotional and the stadium was practically reaching a boiling point. What was missing for Hoffenheim to claim at least a point in Dortmund?
Rudy: It’s obviously difficult once you concede the opener in Dortmund just four minutes into the game. But in my opinion we managed to push Dortmund back into their own half. Not much came from them after the opener. They defended in a compact shape, making it very difficult to find an opening. For that our team deserves a compliment. If even Dortmund fall back and defend at home it says everything. It says that we are playing a good season.
Question: It is quite rare to see Dortmund stand so deep and even have Ousmane Dembélé get involved in defensive duties. What was your plan to overcome their defensive approach?
Rudy: I immediately noticed Dembélé following me around everywhere. I tried to pull him away from central areas, giving my team mates more space. Kevin Vogt was able to run at them with the ball a few times and then play a smart pass. It definitely didn’t influence our performance in a negative way.
Question: Did you expect Dortmund to be this aggressive in their tackles or were you surprised?
Rudy: We always have to be prepared for every situation. Furthermore, every player has to apply self-initiative and find a solution in these situations.
Question: Hoffenheim struggled to create chances. Why did you fail to find a breakthrough in the final third?
