Gabi has admitted that Bayer Leverkusen succeeded in playing Atletico Madrid at their own game after Wednesday’s 1-0 defeat in the Champions League.
Hakan Calhanoglu’s goal on the hour mark gave the Germans the advantage in the first leg of their last-16 tie with Los Colchoneros, and the midfielder conceded his side lacked the intensity levels of their opponents.
“I think they played very intensely, with great speed in attack, and pressed comfortably. This is why they won today. It was a tough match,” he said after the game.
“We knew it would be difficult to score and play under pressure, but we now have an opportunity to reverse the tie.
“Their intensity [got them the win] but almost without [giving away] chances. They’re fair winners.
“The result is a difficult [one to take], but I trust this team. We have enough players to spare.”
