"Heroes are born in such groups", commented BVB boss Hans-Joachim Watzke with regard to the draw, who also brought up 2012 and the fact that Borussia Dortmund won their group that year despite its being comprised of three domestic league champions at that time, namely Real Madrid, Manchester City and Ajax Amsterdam. Peter Bosz: "Nicosia rounds off a difficult group overall. We accept the challenge willingly!" The opinions on the draw.

Hans-Joachim Watzke (Chairman of the Board): "It is undoubtably the most difficult group, but not for the first time. In 2012 we had Real and Man City in our group – and we still made it through. We had no say in the matter, we accept the challenge! Heroes are born in such groups."

Michael Zorc (Sporting Director): "It is a very challenging group for BVB with defending champions Real Madrid as clear favourites. I think we are on the same level as Tottenham."

Peter Bosz (Manager): "Real were the first team to successfully defend the Champions League title. I saw Madrid's last match against Barcelona, and I have to say that is the gold standard in football right now! It will be my first time at the Bernabeu, but for most of the others at BVB things will feel very familiar. I have already played and won against Tottenham, a very strong team. Nicosia rounds off what is a tough group overall. We accept the challenge willingly!"

Marcel Schmelzer (Team Captain): "It's the group of death. Even though we have risen to the challenge against Real a number of times, I have wanted to compete against other opponents on occasion. Tottenham are strong, and I am looking forward to playing at Wembley again. It is a great experience! We are likewise looking forward to taking on Nicosia, because it is another country and a new team for us to get to know."