Bayer Leverkusen’s 1-1 draw with Mainz in the Bundesliga is “not the end of the world”, according to Jarell Quansah.
The defender’s goal rescued a point for Kasper Hjulmand’s side in the 88th minute, cancelling out Sheraldo Becker’s stunning finish.
Leverkusen, who played out a goalless stalemate with Olympiacos in midweek to book their place in the Champions League’s last 16, struggled to get going in the first half.
And though they improved after the break, ultimately finishing with 12 shots worth 1.3 expected goals (xG), they were arguably fortunate to come away with a point.
It is a result that keeps Leverkusen’s top-four hopes alive with 11 games still to go, but they remain three points behind Stuttgart, having missed a chance to close that gap.
“We didn’t have enough energy, not enough intensity,” Quansah said post-match.
“It’s not the end of the world now, we have to keep that in mind. There are still many games and important months to come.
“We want to qualify for the Champions League, of course. And to do that, we have to win games. That’s what it’s all about at the end of the season.”
Leverkusen have now won just one of their last four matches in the Bundesliga, failing to win either of their last two.
And Hjulmand was also left frustrated by the performance, admitting it was a “difficult game”.
“Of course, we’re not happy with our performance,” Hjulmand said.
“We lacked rhythm and intensity on the ball; we didn’t create enough chances. We had more energy in the last 30 minutes, and the equaliser was deserved in the end.
“Overall, however, we simply haven’t done enough offensively in the last two or three games.”