Sebastian Hoeneß: “Eventually we will crack Bayern!”

Sebastian Hoeneß was left frustrated after Stuttgart’s defeat in Saturday’s DFB-Pokal final, with Bayern Munich’s superior quality ultimately proving decisive in Berlin.

The Stuttgart coach felt his side performed well for long periods and succeeded in forcing Bayern into mistakes, but failed to make enough of their own attacking opportunities.

“The frustration is definitely there, I’m disappointed. We played this final to win it and for a certain period we did many things right, winning a lot of balls back. What we can and must blame ourselves for is that we didn’t make more from those situations.”

Hoeneß also pointed to the decisive quality of Harry Kane and Michael Olise, both of whom produced key moments during Bayern’s victory.

“It’s bitter for the boys. Harry Kane and Michael Olise had brilliant moments again, and as an opponent there’s only so much you can do against that.”

The Stuttgart head coach reserved particular praise for Kane, describing the England captain as the complete package while also complimenting Bayern’s work as a club.

“It’s the complete package that is Harry Kane, where you simply have to admit without envy that he’s a fantastic player and Bayern are doing a fantastic job. But eventually we will crack Bayern, I know that.”

Hoeneß also paid tribute to goalkeeper Alexander Nübel, who could now be set to leave Stuttgart following another strong campaign.

“Alex Nübel is a fantastic person and player, we’ve celebrated great moments together. We will miss him a lot — he’s a player I’ve really enjoyed working with.”