Bayern without fans against Arsenal, Dortmund facing "knockout monsters" Atletico
A mixture of relief and respect accompanied German sides Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund after the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal draw was made on Friday.
With Bayern facing Premier League leaders Arsenal and Dortmund crossing swords with La Liga side Atletico Madrid, a possible direct German duel has been avoided, as well as having to play favorites such as Real Madrid or Manchester City.
Bayern's record against Arsenal might be encouraging after winning all four previous Champions League knockout ties against the Gunners, but the record German champions will have to play their quarterfinal opener in London without fans in attendance, after the club was sanctioned after supporters threw fireworks onto the pitch during a group stage match against FC Copenhagen.
The last three matches between Bayern and Arsenal have all ended 5-1 in the German side's favour.
But for Bayern board member Andreas Jung, this iteration of Arsenal can't be compared to those of previous years.
"Everything is possible as the way to Wembley [Stadium, which will stage the final] has been lined out," said Bayern coach Thomas Tuchel.
"They are little knockout monsters," Dortmund coach Edin Terzic said of Atletico Madrid. "Therefore it is vital to have a good start in the first leg in their arena and then create a magic evening on home soil."
Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke spoke about a 50-50 case "in which we have our chance but know about the power of Atletico."
The official added that Dortmund had bold dreams of reaching the final and taking revenge over Bayern, who beat Dortmund in the 2013 final.
Dortmund and Atletico have each won two games in head-to-head Champions League duels.
The quarterfinals will take place on April 9/10 and 16/17.