Barcelona insists focus is key to Champions League success
- Barcelona carries a 4-0 advantage into the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Borussia Dortmund.
- Hansi Flick stresses the importance of focus and commitment despite their long unbeaten streak.
- Both teams recognize the unpredictability of football, highlighting the possibility of dramatic comebacks in the Champions League.
In the ongoing UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, Barcelona prepares for a crucial second leg against Borussia Dortmund on April 15, 2025, at Signal Iduna Park in Germany. They enter this match with a commanding 4-0 lead from the first leg, where Barcelona exhibited a strong performance. Despite their unbeaten streak of 24 games across all competitions, manager Hansi Flick emphasizes the need for continued focus and determination among his players. He stated that their past achievements would only matter if they played their best in the upcoming match. Barcelona's position as league leaders in La Liga and their presence in the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid further exemplifies their strong performance this season. Flick expressed confidence in his squad but reiterated the importance of treating this match with the utmost seriousness, acknowledging the challenges posed by Dortmund. He reminded reporters of the unpredictable nature of football, especially in the Champions League, where early leads can evaporate quickly, as seen in past tournaments. Dortmund coach Niko Kovac is aware of the task ahead and cited Liverpool's remarkable comeback against Barcelona in previous years, emphasizing that his team must display intensity from the start. Both coaches recognized that the situation demands a level of concentration and energy that cannot be underestimated. Fans play a crucial role in the atmosphere of these high-stakes matches, and Kovac is keen on rallying their support to help spur his team towards a remarkable comeback. As the match approaches, the stakes remain high for Barcelona, who are not only looking to advance in the Champions League but also aiming to rekindle their success in European competition, which has eluded them since their last title win a decade ago. This quarter-final clash represents a critical step towards potentially recapturing their status as a dominant force in football. If they can maintain their composure and deliver a top performance, Barcelona could confirm their place in the semi-finals and continue their quest for a treble this season.