UEFA Champions League 2017/18 - Borussia Dortmund vs Real Madrid: Match Preview

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Being Second only to Bayern vs Arsenal in terms of periodicity in recent seasons, the clash between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund has already taken place three times in the past six seasons of the UEFA Champions League.

Like the previous fixtures, the clash between these two giants of Europe promises to be a hugely exciting one during the upcoming matchday of the UEFA Champions League 2017-18.

The starts of their respective campaigns have been contrasting by some margin. After winning the UEFA Super Cup and the Spanish Super Cup, Real Madrid have started their League campaign in a somewhat slow manner, trailing the top by 7 points.

Apart from their expected win against Apoel in matchday 1 of the Champions League, they have not been at their decisive best against the other teams in La Liga.

Dortmund on the other hand, apart from their defeat against Spurs, have been at their level best winning 5 out of 6 matches in the Bundesliga.

Aubameyang and Ronaldo are expected to spearhead the attack of their respective teams on Tuesday
Aubameyang and Ronaldo are expected to spearhead the attack of their respective teams on Tuesday

Like the previous fixtures, the upcoming one promises to be a scoring feast, and with Ronaldo and Aubameyang as forwards on either side, a 0-0 result is the last thing that a football fan expects from a fixture as exciting as this.

Ronaldo might be 32, but his goals against FC Barcelona and Fiorentina show that he is still capable of leaving the crowd and his opponents in complete awe and astonishment. The Madrid faithful would also be hoping that the trio of Isco, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos weave their magic over the football field once again.

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Toni Kroos and Luka Modric will be key figures in the clash against Dortmund

There have been some doubts regarding Madrid’s defence since the start of the season and with Marcelo out injured, Ramos and Varane would have to be at their best against the German club, and particularly against the pacey Aubameyang and the exciting Pulisic.

The German team is based on the principles of quick and heavy pressing, direct running and ruthless counter-attacking football. Scoring goals for fun, they have been ruthless in their attack in the Bundesliga up till now scoring 19 goals in 6 matches.

Aubameyang has been at the top his powers for some time now, and he would be expected to be on the scoresheet again on Tuesday against the shaky defence of Los Blancos. The German club has also been solid at their back, conceding just a single goal in their league up till now.

The Dortmund fans at the Westfalenstadion, known for their passion and support for their club, would also try their level best to keep up the noise and keep motivating their players to move forward.

Apart from being at home, the 'Big Game' factor would play a crucial role for the Germans. They are expected to be at almost their level best, both at the front and at the back. On the other hand, the Zidane factor and his tactics would play a crucial part for the Los Blancos.

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Zinedine Zidane will do his best to trump his German opponents this week

When the Spanish Club hits the top gear, rarely is anyone able to hold them back, and with Ronaldo back and hungry to score goals, the Kings of Europe are expected to give the Germans a tough fight for the 3 points at stake.

One thing's for sure, though. This game is going to be an absolute cracker and you wouldn't want to miss it.

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