Schalke boss Domenico Tedesco said his side were worthy losers after Porto secured top spot in Group D of the Champions League with a 3-1 win.
Both Porto and Schalke were already certain of their places in the knockout stage heading into Wednesday's encounter, but the Primeira Liga leaders knew a victory would be enough to claim pole position and, in theory, an easier tie in the round of 16.
Goals from Eder Militao, Jesus Corona and Moussa Marega proved the difference, with Nabil Bentaleb's penalty a mere consolation.
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And Tedesco, whose side were unbeaten in the opening four fixtures, acknowledged Schalke's display was not up to scratch.