After the end of the first test match of the year against Turkish league leaders Trabzonspor, head coach Thomas Schaaf went to every single player and clapped hands with them. "We said beforehand that we were facing a strong opponent who are doing very well in the league and have good individual players. So from that standpoint, it was a good, motivated test," said a satisfied Schaaf to media members in the mixed zone of Mardan Palace Stadium in Kundu. Torsten Frings also spoke of a "solid test", knowing that "games in Turkey are always difficult", said the captain, who actually had hoped for more. "We were the better team over the 90 minutes."
In the 58th minute, new acquisition Denni Avdic was subbed in and the Swede gave a solid showing. "He did a good job and was part of some good situations," said head coach Thomas Schaaf about his striker's performance.