Group F – Kick-off 19:45 (BST)
Valeri Gazzaev says Dynamo Kyiv have “huge motivation” as they look ahead to what the coach describes as their most important match of the season against holders and Group F leaders Barcelona.
Gazzaev, whose side need to win and hope Internazionale and Rubin Kazan draw, else win 2-0 or better to overtake their opponents should there be a winner in Milan, is hoping “desire to fight” will make the difference in Kyiv.
“The group is very tight and all four teams still have a good chance to qualify,” he said. “If we want to continue our Champions League campaign then we need a win, so our motivation is huge.
“The team understands the significance of the match, probably the most important of our season. Thus, I hope we play our best football. I know we’re going to be tested by the best team in the world, but I also know what my players can do.
“All except Yevgen Khacheridi are fit and in good physical condition, not to mention full of desire to fight their way to the next round. However, only during the match itself will we discover our strengths and weaknesses – and I really hope the strengths prevail.”
Victory would take the holders into the first knockout round as Group F winners while a draw would secure progress, but Josep Guardiola believes only three points will suffice.
“We came here to win although a draw or narrow defeat would do for us,” he said. “It’s not the style of big teams to look at anything but victory.
“For us, this game is like a final because the result will determine our future in the Champions League; there won’t be another chance to make up for lost time. Nevertheless, we didn’t prepare in any special way; we’ve done our usual things.
“The situation in our group is very tough with the destiny of all four teams in their own hands, and since we are leaders we are expecting a successful end to the group stage.
“We are not going to wait for Dynamo to make the first move; we shall just play our game, although they’re strong opponents with a glorious history.”
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