German goalkeeper Bernd Leno admitted after the 1-0 defeat to Spain that La Rojita fully deserved their victory.
Alvaro Morata’s goal on 86 minutes proved the difference in their Euro Under-21 finals Group B game, but Bayer Leverkusen stopper Leno acknowledged that Julen Lopetegui’s side had been far superior.
“Of course this was a deserved defeat. Spain were simply better and we have to recognise that. Still, we put up a great fight today and were trying our hardest,” Leno told reporters afterwards.
“We managed to keep it at 0-0 until five minutes from time then conceded a goal and are now out of the tournament. It’s very disappointing, especially as the tournament has been a bit unfortunate for us.
“We conceded late goals in both game but you cannot blame us for not trying our hardest. Everyone was working for the team.
“I don't think we lost because the defence lacked experience. The Spanish players are outstanding technically and you saw that they brought a lot of top players to this tournament
“We couldn't contain them, they outplayed us. But we can't blame it on the fact that many players were injured and it's also not the defence's fault. The defence did a great job,” he added.
