The city is abuzz with expectation and the tension is almost tangible ahead of VfB’s home game against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday evening, on the decisive final matchday of the league phase of the UEFA Champions League (kick-off 21:00 CET).
“It’s not all that long ago that we could only have dreamed of being in a situation like this on a European night like this,” said head coach Sebastian Hoeneß. “But here we are and now we’ve got the opportunity to extend our Champions League journey. It’s a wonderful thing.” The tactician is visibly excited about the game – as are his players.
“Among the top five teams in Europe”
And not only because of the chance to progress to the knockout rounds but also because of the opposition. There are not many bigger, more glamorous names around than Paris Saint-Germain. The team from the French capital have won ten of 12 possible domestic league titles since 2012/13.
“They’re among the top five teams in Europe,” said Hoeneß. “They’ve got some extraordinary players in their side and they can press high and play as a team.” So how can VfB compete?
“We’ll need a top performance and we want to produce a top performance too.” The focus is therefore completely on the upcoming decisive 90 minutes against PSG.
Nübel doubtful
Alexander Nübel missed VfB’s final training session with a cold, meaning a last-minute decision will be made on Wednesday evening as to whether or not he can play.
Anthony Rouault, meanwhile, will serve a one-match ban after receiving his third yellow card of the season in the 3-1 win in Bratislava. Everybody else registered in the Champions League squad is available for selection.