Schalke’s Karius reflects on 3-0 defeat: “Augsburg deserved to win”

Loris Karius has conceded that Schalke's Bundesliga comeback ended with a deserved defeat after Augsburg won 3-0 on Sunday.

Schalke started the game well and stayed competitive during the opening stages, but Augsburg gradually took control before eventually securing a comfortable victory. “I think we held our own really well in the first half,” Karius said after the match. “But in the end, Augsburg deserved the win because of the second half. The red card obviously didn't make things any easier for us.”

Karius was also self-critical when reflecting on Augsburg's opener. After receiving the ball, the goalkeeper attempted to quickly restart play with a throw, but Schalke teammate Becker was unable to reach the pass. Augsburg then took advantage, with Anton Kade's cross eventually finding Michael Gregoritsch for the opening goal.

“The first goal is also partly on me, of course,” Karius admitted. “I wanted to speed up the game with a quick throw, but unfortunately Becker couldn't get to it.”

However, the goalkeeper refused to be overly critical of the decision.

“That happens. Another time, we can turn that into a great counter-attacking opportunity.”

Despite the disappointing result, Karius' comments suggest Schalke will take positives from their first half as they begin their return to the Bundesliga.