Altintop: Experience cost us

Galatasaray midfielder Hamit Altintop has cited a lack of experience in their defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain all but secured Real’s place in the semi-finals at the expense of the Turkish champions, and Altintop believes Madrid’s regular appearances at the latter stages of the tournament proved crucial in their victory.

“We are really sad about the defeat,” he told reporters after the match.

“In the first half, both teams were balanced in the game. We also found positions (to score). But they scored and we didn’t.

“They are an experienced team. Every year they fight for the Champions League. This was the difference. I think we have quality players, too, but a lack of confidence.

“We made some errors because of confidence. We’ll try to do everything to win in İstanbul.”

Winger Nordin Amrabat said Fatih Terim’s side will be eager for an early goal in the return leg in order to keep their hopes of reaching the last four alive.

“I wanted to come in earlier, but maybe our coach doubted after the first two goals. I’m happy, however, to have played against Real,” he told NOS.

“They were better and we did not create many chances. We tried to do our best, but Real is a top team. It’s a pity that we didn’t score.

“Hopefully we can seal an early 1-0 lead when we play at home, but obviously it will be a difficult match.”