Borussia Dortmund's inconsistency this season has been a significant concern, particularly as they prepare to face FC Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-finals. Currently sitting eighth in the Bundesliga, Dortmund's domestic struggles contrast sharply with their European ambitions.

A critical blow to their defense is the recent injury to key center-back Nico Schlotterbeck, who suffered a meniscus tear in his left knee during training. This injury is expected to sideline him for several months, ruling him out for the remainder of the season, including the crucial fixtures against Barcelona. ​

In their previous encounter on December 11, 2024, Dortmund displayed both resilience and vulnerability. Despite coming from behind twice with goals from Serhou Guirassy, they ultimately succumbed to a 3-2 defeat, with Ferran Torres netting the decisive goal for Barcelona.

Barcelona's manager, Hansi Flick, remains cautious despite his team's strong form, acknowledging Dortmund's quality and the challenges they present. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating their opponents. ​

The emotional aspect of Dortmund's game has been highlighted as a potential key to overcoming their inconsistencies. Ilkay Gündogan, after a previous defeat with Barcelona, stressed the need for teams to exhibit more emotion and passion in critical matches. This sentiment could be particularly relevant for Dortmund as they seek to galvanize their squad in the absence of Schlotterbeck and amidst a challenging season. ​

As Dortmund prepares for the upcoming clash, channeling their emotions positively and addressing defensive vulnerabilities will be crucial. The team's ability to harness their passion and translate it into a cohesive and resilient performance could determine their success against a formidable Barcelona side.