Terzic Shares Mixed Emotions After Dortmund's Champions League Defeat

Edin Terzic expressed mixed emotions following Borussia Dortmund's 2-0 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League final on Saturday. Despite Dortmund's strong first-half performance, they failed to capitalise on their chances. Late goals from Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Junior secured Real Madrid's 15th European title, leaving Dortmund heartbroken at Wembley for the second time.

Reflecting on the match, Terzic acknowledged the team's efforts but lamented their inability to finish. "After a Champions League final we've lost, I'm proud but also empty," he told TNT Sports. "It's difficult to think about the last 12 months and analyse that period. But I think we've had a season with a lot of ups and downs."

Terzic highlighted the team's potential, noting that their performance demonstrated what they could achieve. "Today was a perfect example of what is possible with this team, what we can achieve and that's what's important from tomorrow onwards. We have to try to be more consistent," he said.

Despite the loss, Terzic praised his players' determination. "Performance-wise, we played a great game, but we found out why they've become champions for the 15th time. They were so effective and that was something we missed," he added.

Full-time at Wembley pic.twitter.com/zNa8MC0eTr

— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) June 1, 2024

Terzic also emphasised the support from Dortmund fans, stating, "We took 100,000 people from Dortmund to London, and everybody had the belief. It was a fantastic journey, but I'm also a bit empty inside as it was a great opportunity, but we didn't take it."

On the opposing side, former Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham made history by becoming the third-youngest player to start a Champions League final for Real Madrid at 20 years and 338 days. He follows in the footsteps of Iker Casillas in 2000 and Raul in 1998.

Terzic commended Bellingham's achievement and extended his congratulations. "When he left us, I said the same thing I said to Erling Haaland - that I was proud to be their manager," Terzic remarked. "It is his first Champions League win, and it is a proud moment for him."

He also acknowledged Bellingham's family support system: "I know what Mark, Denise and Jobe are doing to get this success in the family. Congratulations to Jude."

The defeat marks Dortmund's third consecutive loss in major European finals. However, Terzic remains optimistic about the future and aims for greater consistency moving forward.