23 February 2015
Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp says his men’s experience on the European stage will ensure they are well prepared for tomorrow’s last 16 encounter against the Bianconeri at Juventus Stadium.
Mainstays in Europe’s elite competition since the 2011/12 campaign, Dortmund go into Tuesday night’s first meeting with a positive streak of Bundesliga form – three wins from their previous three games - supporting their big-game nous.
And Klopp, previewing the first of two last 16 ties with the Serie A league leaders, says his men are determined to keep marching on in Turin.
Speaking to the media, the 47-year-old said: “We’ve done our homework on Juve, we’re aware of their history but we’re a team who know how to play big games against big sides. Our battle plan? That will be revealed tomorrow.
“Anything can happen in the Champions League, it’s a very stimulating competition and we’re extremely motivated. We want to show everyone our qualities.
“We need to take our recent positive Bundesliga form into the game. Juventus are good at maintaining a low tempo, while our high intensity approach is one of our strengths. I’m sure we’ll see a good game tomorrow.”
Sat alongside his manager during the press conference was Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who took his first steps to becoming a professional footballer with the Milan Primavera.
Before explaining the fundamental difference between the approach to football in Germany and Italy, the winger was quick to lavish praise on the man who keeps Juventus ticking at the heart of midfield.
The 25-year-old said: “Juventus have great players. Pirlo is one of them and is someone I know personally from my time at Milan. But we’ve also got a great side and can do well tomorrow night. The Champions League is a competition that brings out plenty of motivation.
“In Germany both teams always play an open game. Here there’s greater attention paid to the tactical side of things. This is why I’m sure we’ll be in for a really entertaining game tomorrow.”
