Alonso ahead of #FCHB04: 'Clear target for the final seven games'

"After the cup exit, we're now in a different situation and fully focused on the league," stressed Alonso, outlining the strategy for the rest of the season. "We're still in an interesting position in it. There are seven games left and we want to be ready for every one. We want to win all these matches, starting tomorrow."

honest analysis of cup defeat

An honest assessment of the 2-1 defeat at Arminia Bielefeld in the DFB Cup semi-finals was also necessary for that. "We all spoke openly together yesterday to share our emotions," revealed the Spaniard. "Above all it was about mentality and courage. Pain is normal after such a big disappointment. We've not had too many setbacks in the last 25 months - the team and I need to learn from it. It would be foolish to do otherwise. From today, though, the focus is back on football and on Heidenheim. We want to show a clear reaction tomorrow," he continued. To do that, they need "confidence on the ball and good passing sequences" again, explained Alonso.

The Bayer 04 boss also cautioned against the hosts, who have won their last two matches against Holstein Kiel (3-1) and Wolfsburg (1-0): "We expect a tough game against tough-acting opponents, similar to Bochum last week. They're fighting for survival, which we'll realise."

Tapsoba back, Wirtz making progress

On the personnel front, Alonso can count on one returnee: Edmond Tapsoba is expected to be back in the squad, although no decision will be made about his involvement until after the final training session on Friday afternoon. The same goes for Exequiel Palacios.

There's also good news on Florian Wirtz: the 21-year-old is joining in with the first part of the activation in today's final training session. "If everything continues to go well, he'll train with the team again next week, but we're waiting to see."

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