Barcelona's Hansi Flick wary of Dortmund's potential Champions League fightback

Barcelona's Hansi Flick wary of Dortmund's potential Champions League fightback

Barcelona head to Signal Iduna Park to face Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg on Tuesday night, carrying a commanding 4-0 lead from the first leg.

Despite the advantage, manager Hansi Flick urged caution, acknowledging the challenge posed by one of Europe's elite sides.

Flick, speaking ahead of the clash, emphasised the need for focus. "We have a very strong squad, but we must stay sharp and play to our strengths," he said.

Reflecting on the first leg, he added, "We're fortunate to have this lead because tomorrow (Tuesday) will be tough. I want the lads to relish facing one of Europe's top teams and maintain the level we showed in the 4-0 win."

On the goalkeeper situation, Flick remained non-committal about Wojciech Szczesny's role as the long-term starter. "In football, anything can happen. I can't give a definite answer on whether Szczesny will be our number one until the season's end," he admitted.

Addressing the possibility of Dani Olmo featuring, Flick was cautious due to the midfielder's injury concerns. "We'll see if Dani can play. He's got immense quality, but injuries have been an issue at times," he noted.

Dortmund, renowned for their passionate home support, will look to spark an unlikely comeback, but Flick expressed confidence in his squad. "I trust my players completely," he declared, sidestepping talk of a potential Dortmund resurgence.

He also dismissed comparisons to his historic sextuple with Bayern Munich in 2020, saying, "I don't dwell on the past. We're focused solely on Dortmund tomorrow."

Flick also praised the travelling Barcelona fans, hoping for a strong connection with the team. "I want our supporters to enjoy the match and feel united with the players," he said.

Barcelona supporters are buzzing on X about the team's attacking flair, though some express concern over Olmo's fitness, echoing Flick's comments.

READ MORE: Bundesliga aims to expand reach in SA through SABC partnership