Hoeneß reflects on Stuttgart's "agonizing" loss to Leverkusen

VfB Stuttgart were well on their way to beating Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga on Sunday evening, leading 3-1 in the second half.

However, the Swabians came away empty-handed after a late comeback saw the visitors run out 4-3 winners.

Stuttgart coach Seasbtian Hoeneß was understandably disappointed after the final whistle.

“It’s hard, it hurts, the outcome of the match is agonizing," said a frustrated Hoeneß in a post-match interview. 

“We demonstrated exactly what we set out to do: we played with passion, with bravery, put Leverkusen under constant pressure. The deserved reward was that we managed to build a two-goal lead. The crucial factor in the final score is that we conceded too quickly after our goals.”

The defeat sees Stuttgart go into the international break without a win in their last five matches.

“There’s no good wallowing in self-pity now; we have to get through this period together and do everything in our power to turn it around. If we manage that, it can bring us further as a team,” said Hoeneß.