Eintracht Frankfurt boss admits frustration after Barcelona defeat – ‘Shame to lose the game from a set piece’ | OneFootball

Eintracht Frankfurt manager Dino Toppmoller offered a detailed and honest assessment of his team’s 1–2 loss to Barcelona, acknowledging both the positives and the frustrations from a match in which his players executed much of the game plan but ultimately fell short. 

Speaking after the defeat, Toppmoller explained that Frankfurt delivered exactly what they had prepared, yet missed crucial opportunities that could have changed the direction of the match.

He highlighted the importance of transition moments and how his side needed to capitalise on them more effectively. Explaining his analysis, Toppmoller said, 

“We lacked transitions. The goal was fantastic. It’s a shame we didn’t score the second one shortly before halftime. 

“We knew Barça would have chances. In the second half, we said we would score another goal. We had a good spell. It’s a shame to lose the game from a set piece.” 

Stopping Lamine Yamal

One area of focus before the match was the duel between Nathaniel Brown and Barcelona’s explosive winger Lamine Yamal. 

Eintracht Frankfurt were beaten by Jules Kounde’s brace. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Toppmoller revealed the level of preparation that went into helping Brown face such a technically gifted opponent. He stated, 

“We prepared him, as we did the whole team. We gave him individual images of Lamine’s profile, why he’s explosive on the wing, and how to catch him off guard. 

“He defended him very well. We did it together. He went one-on-one. But others also helped him. We knew it was difficult to defend him one-on-one.”

On missed opportunities

Despite the defeat, Toppmoller remained optimistic about his team’s potential and their chances in the competition. Speaking about the belief within the squad, he noted, 

“We felt it was possible to beat a world-class team. We wanted to score another goal in the second half. It was tough. 

“We want to grow. Faith and conviction in this team. I know we’ll have a good season,” he noted.

Source: MARCA