Koeman says AZ did not deserve to fall out of Europe

John Nisbet
Thursday 26 November 2009 01:00 GMT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

The AZ Alkmaar coach, Ronald Koeman, refused to criticise his team after Tuesday night's goalless draw at home to Olympiakos ended their hopes of making the Champions League knockout stage.

The Dutch side needed a win to keep alive any hope of progressing from Group H after taking just two points from their opening four games, but were unable to find a way past visiting goalkeeper Antonis Nikopolidis.

Koeman, though, felt his side could have won. "Olympiakos played for a point. We played for the full three points and had most of the game. I cannot criticise the team. They did everything, but it was always just not enough," he said.

The Belgium international Sebastien Pocognoli echoed his manager's thoughts. He said: "I am disappointed by our elimination. On the other hand, we played well. Especially in the second half, we were strong. But ultimately it is the result that counts. And a draw is not enough."

In the Bundesliga, Edin Dzeko has promised he will not be leaving Wolfsburg this winter, but the chances of him still playing for them next season are slim. The Bosnian striker is high up on Milan's list of targets and the Italians are believed to be lining up another bid after failing last summer. Several other major European clubs are said to be interested too.

However, the 23-year-old insists he is committed to Wolfsburg, at least until the end of the season. "A transfer in the winter is not an issue at all," he said.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in