Borussia Dortmund Embrace “Favourites” Tag Ahead of Crucial Second Leg Against PSV

Donyell Malen, the prolific striker for Borussia Dortmund, asserted on Tuesday that his team is embracing the “favourites” label as they gear up for the pivotal last-16 second leg clash against PSV Eindhoven.

“Are we considered the favourites? Playing on our home turf, I believe we hold that title,” Malen confidently stated to reporters, with Wednesday’s match finely balanced following a 1-1 draw in the Netherlands back in February.

While PSV, alongside Porto, stands as the last remaining team from outside Europe’s top five leagues, Peter Bosz’s unbeaten side has enjoyed a remarkable domestic campaign, dropping just six points out of a possible 75.

In contrast, Dortmund has endured a challenging season in the Bundesliga but has showcased their mettle in the Champions League, notably topping a group that included heavyweights like Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, and Newcastle United.

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“Our season is far from over,” emphasized Dortmund coach Edin Terzic on Tuesday. “We are presented with a significant opportunity, and we are prepared to give our all for it.”

“We approach tomorrow’s match with a sense of confidence that we have rightfully earned through our hard work in the first leg,” Terzic added.

Malen, who made the switch from PSV to Dortmund in 2021, has enjoyed a stellar campaign in Germany, notably finding the back of the net in the first leg encounter against his former club.

With the abolition of the away goals rule, Wednesday’s victor will advance to the next round, whether in regulation time or through extra time.

“We haven’t dwelled much on the prospect of a penalty shootout, but it goes without saying that we have made necessary preparations,” remarked Malen.

Dortmund will have to contend with the absence of injured striker Sebastien Haller and defender Nico Schlotterbeck, who is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. The experienced Mats Hummels is expected to step into the lineup to fill the void.

As the stage is set for a thrilling showdown at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund remains determined to capitalize on their home advantage and secure a coveted spot in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.