признать in English:

Today however, we have to admit that this historical opportunity has been missed.

he had to admit

I need to admit I was wrong

to admit doing something: He admitted breaking the window.

The police to admit they have no evidence.

I have to admit that I don't like it very much.

It's fine to admit that you're scared

I have to admit that I have a feeling of both hope and despair about this.