“I can accept defeats like this.”

FC Heidenheim trainer Frank Schmidt declared himself satisfied with his team’s performance despite Thursday night’s home Conference League defeat to Chelsea FC.

As evidenced by a massive choreo display organized by fans paying tribute to their head-coach of 17 years, Heidenheim’s home Conference League fixture against Chelsea FC was more of an “event” than a result. 

As it so happens, a spirited performance by the team left both the fans and the coach in a good mood. Schmidt’s post-match comments stood in stark contrast to the manner in which he chastised his team after their last defeat.

“In the end, Chelsea goal-scorers [Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk] cost €100 million and €80 million,” Schmidt remarked with a tone of resignation when speaking to German broadcaster RTL, “You can’t always defend that.” 

“He was a machine that sucked the balls in,” Schmidt said of Chelsea keeper Filip Jörgensen’s performance, “We had the chances, but he really did keep everything.”

“We still left our hearts on the pitch and were close to scoring an equalizer,” Schmidt was quick to add, “It says a lot that Chelsea had to come here and play us until the end.” 

“My team played really well,” Schmidt concluded, “If we continue to play like this, we’ll pick up points before the winter break. I can accept defeats like this.”