Borussia Dortmund’s journey to the Champions League final against Real Madrid has been nothing short of remarkable. Despite finishing fifth in the Bundesliga this season, few expected them to reach this stage of the competition. However, under the guidance of coach Edin Terzic, Dortmund stunned Atletico Madrid and outclassed Paris Saint-Germain in the quarterfinals and semifinals, respectively, proving that they are ready to compete at the highest level.
Speaking before the final showdown at Wembley Stadium, Terzic made it clear that Dortmund are not just there to make up the numbers. He emphasized that they are focused on winning the trophy and creating history for the club. Despite facing Real Madrid, the record champions of the competition, Terzic remains unfazed and believes that in a one-off final, anything is possible.
One of Dortmund’s key strengths throughout the competition has been their defensive solidity. With the most clean sheets in the Champions League this season, Dortmund have shown that they are capable of keeping even the best attacks at bay. Terzic highlighted the importance of keeping the opposition away from goal and credited his team for their improved defensive performances leading up to the final.
One of the challenges Dortmund will face in the final is former player Jude Bellingham, who now plays for Real Madrid. Despite the potential threat he poses, Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt made it clear that the team is fully focused on their task at hand and not distracted by external factors. With the final set to be an emotional occasion, Dortmund will look to stay composed and execute their game plan effectively.
The Champions League final will also mark the end of an era for some players, with Marco Reus playing his final match for Dortmund and Toni Kroos preparing for his last club game before retirement. Brandt paid tribute to both players, acknowledging Kroos as an icon and praising Reus as one of his childhood idols. As Dortmund’s 300th European game, the final will hold sentimental value for the club and its players.
While emotions will run high on the night of the final, Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck emphasized the team’s singular focus on the task at hand. With a track record of shutting out top teams like Paris Saint-Germain, Dortmund will look to maintain their defensive solidity and capitalize on their chances to secure victory against Real Madrid. The road to the final has been paved with challenges, but Dortmund are determined to seize this opportunity and etch their names in Champions League history.
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