Borussia Dortmund Face Up-hill Battle Against Atlético Madrid
Defenders Hummels and Schlotterbeck Step Up
Dortmund's Hopes Rest on Haller's Late Goal
Borussia Dortmund face a daunting task as they host Atlético Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash, trailing 2-1 on aggregate after the first leg. The German club will need to overcome a determined Atlético side and a one-goal deficit to reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2014.
Despite the odds being stacked against them, Dortmund will take comfort in the performances of defenders Mats Hummels and Nico Schlotterbeck. The duo were solid in the first leg, neutralizing the threat of Atlético's dangerous forwards, Antoine Griezmann and João Félix. Hummels, a veteran of the game, brings experience and leadership to the backline, while Schlotterbeck has impressed with his physicality and ability to read the game.
Dortmund's hopes will also rest on the shoulders of striker Sébastien Haller, who scored a crucial away goal in the first leg. The Ivorian forward, who has recovered from a testicular cancer diagnosis, has shown great determination and resilience this season. His presence in the starting lineup will be a boost to the team's morale and attacking threat.
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