Real could have guaranteed themselves a place in the last 16 with a victory in Germany, but that was not to be as they slumped to a 3-2 loss.

Therefore the Spanish champions must now take something out of their final match at home to Lazio if they are to be certain of avoiding an embarrassing early exit from the competition.

Having also had the chance to book their place in the knockout stages against Olympiacos in the previous round of matches - a game they drew 0-0 - Schuster concedes things are not quite going to plan.

"I didn't want to arrive at this situation," the German coach said.

"We missed out on two great chances. We came close to winning in Greece and now in Germany it has been difficult.

"This defeat is a warning, and not only for this game. We know we want the ball, but when we don't have it we have to be more intelligent."

Despite their first European loss of the season, Real are still top of the standings with eight points, the same as Olympiacos, two ahead of Werder and three in front of Lazio.

Real only need a point against the Italian side at the Bernabeu, and Schuster is confident they can achieve at least that.

"We still have things to do and learn. Losing is disappointing, but I still have faith in my players," he said on his club's website.

"At home and in front of our fans we will secure our qualification against Lazio."