Dortmund ready to challenge Real Madrid in Champions League final

LONDON: Borussia Dortmund coach Edin Terzic has declared his team’s intent to be more than mere spectators at Wembley as they face Real Madrid in the Champions League final. Determined to lift the trophy, Terzic emphasized, “You don’t play a final, you win a final, and that is our clear goal.”

On the eve of the highly anticipated showdown, Terzic spoke to reporters, brimming with confidence despite Dortmund’s underwhelming domestic campaign which saw them finish fifth in the Bundesliga. “We’re happy to be here but we have to win at Wembley Stadium against Real Madrid, to hold that trophy in our hands,” he stated, ahead of leading a training session on the pristine turf in north-west London.

Dortmund’s journey to the final has been nothing short of miraculous. Few would have predicted their presence in this year’s finale, especially considering their last appearance in a Champions League final was a decade ago, also at Wembley, where they suffered defeat against Bayern Munich. Yet, Terzic’s men have defied the odds, stunning Atletico Madrid in a quarter-final thriller and executing a tactical masterclass to edge past Paris St Germain with 1-0 victories in both legs of the semi-final.

Acknowledging Real Madrid’s status as favourites, Terzic remained unfazed. “If we are brave and not here to see Madrid win their next trophy, then we’re going to have a chance,” he said, highlighting the importance of Dortmund’s fearless approach.

Real Madrid, under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, represent a formidable challenge. However, Terzic believes Dortmund’s defensive resilience can be a game-changer. “We are the team with the most clean sheets in the competition this season,” he pointed out, noting their top rankings in tackles, clearances, and ball recovery.