'Of course we want to attack' - Hoffenheim centre-back Akpoguma disappointed after goalless draw

Hoffenheim central defender Kevin Akpoguma expressed his frustration after Sunday's goalless draw against Heidenheim at the Voith-Arena in the German Bundesliga, emphasizing the team's desire to attack and improve their current standing.

The 29-year-old's comments came after a lackluster performance from both teams, with few clear-cut chances created throughout the match. 

The first half was marked by cautious play, with neither side willing to commit forward. 

However, the game opened up in the second half, with Hoffenheim's Marius Bülter testing Heidenheim goalkeeper Kevin Müller in the 51st minute.

Heidenheim responded strongly, with Leo Scienza going close just before the hour mark. 

The introduction of Maximilian Breunig in the 70th minute almost paid dividends, but his point-blank shot was spectacularly saved by Hoffenheim goalkeeper Oliver Baumann. 

Baumann's heroics continued as he denied Scienza again, and Sirlord Conteh's late opportunity was squandered.

Reacting to the disappointing draw, the Nigerian international told Kicker: "Of course we want to attack, but we are not happy with where we are right now. We dropped points in the first few games. 

"Now we can beat any team or keep games like this open." 

The former Germany youth international's sentiments reflect Hoffenheim's underwhelming start to the season, currently sitting 15th in the Bundesliga table.

The draw leaves Heidenheim in 10th place, and despite the stalemate, Akpoguma remains optimistic about Hoffenheim's prospects. 

With two upcoming home games – against 1. FC Nuremberg in the cup and newly promoted St. Pauli in the league, Akpoguma hopes to accelerate the team's upward trend.

The former Germany U-20 skipper was last seen in a Super Eagles jersey in 2023, playing for nineteen minutes in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sierra Leone.

Ejim Kaycee

Photo Credit: tsg-hoffenheim.de

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