Sebastian Hoeness: Stuttgart "can be proud" despite loss to Real Madrid

VfB Stuttgart made a positive impression in their Champions League away game against Real Madrid at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday, but were ultimately beaten 3-1 by the defending champions.

The Swabians created plenty of chances in the first half, but didn't convert them and were punished after the break.

Despite the failure to pick up any points, Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeness was still pleased with what he had seen from his players.

“We wanted to be brave, to show our courage and to stick to how we usually play in Germany. Of course we’re disappointed in the result, but we can be proud," Hoeness said, according to UEFA.com.

“They scored a goal when we really believed we had the game under control. We had good ball possession, but then Madrid scored. It was a fascinating game with many chances for both teams.

"Stuttgart contributed to making it an unforgettable night. We are proud tonight. I reminded my players of what we wanted to accomplish and almost everything we aimed at has been achieved. On the other hand, we were so close to winning. We've acquired great experience here and we'll use all that in the coming matches."

Hoeness had special praise for Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who was instrumental in keeping the Bundesliga side off the scoresheet in the first half.

“Courtois is, without doubt, one of the best goalkeepers in the world and he proved that again tonight. You win or lose football matches based on goals. Madrid have an amazing quality for preventing goals and scoring them. We had our chances, but Courtois was a big factor," he said.