Borussia Dortmund are fully embracing their position as underdogs in the upcoming Club World Cup quarter-final against Real Madrid, as noted by their coach, Niko Kovac, on Friday. The Bundesliga side is keen to seek retribution for their Champions League final loss from last year.
Dortmund are currently enjoying an impressive 11-match unbeaten run, yet they are well aware of the challenging task ahead as they go up against the La Liga giants in soaring temperatures in East Rutherford, New Jersey, this Saturday. Kovac anticipates a fervent atmosphere with a crowd heavily favouring Real Madrid.
The players “understand the significance of facing Real Madrid tomorrow,” Kovac informed reporters at MetLife Stadium.
“We’re expecting a strong turnout of supporters, particularly for Real Madrid. We come in as underdogs, but we’re keen to display our best side and, hopefully – this is what we believe – we can progress to the next round.”
Real Madrid have an impressive record against Dortmund, remaining unbeaten in their last six encounters, with four consecutive victories, including a 2-0 triumph in the Champions League final last year.
Nevertheless, the German side are optimistic about overturning the odds, especially after experiencing a resurgence since Kovac took charge in February. The Croatian manager expressed that his squad is operating with “the highest level” of confidence ahead of their clash with Real Madrid.
“We require high self-confidence when taking on Real Madrid,” he stated.
“We finished fourth in the Bundesliga, but it was a close call, and we faced some tough matches.
“We have taken on significant opponents, and the players have proven they are capable of competing with them. This is a major reason for my belief in my players – they know what it takes to be at their best tomorrow.”
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Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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