"Fürth was a good rehearsal for the Bundesliga. As was the fact we were taken to 120 minutes," said Lucien Favre, who believes his team is well-equipped to start their campaign on Sunday (kick-off 18:00 CET), when they host Rasenballsport Leipzig. He has several options in terms of tactics and personnel. "The week was short. But we used it well."

"It's my first time as Borussia Dortmund coach, I'm looking forward to seeing the 81,000 spectators," said the Swiss tactician, adding: "I'm eagerly anticipating the South Stand. It's special for everyone across Europe and the whole world." It has the capacity to help the team, especially in situations where things are not running smoothly – and particularly against an opponent that will play with great power and athleticism. In Michael Zorc's eyes, it's "certainly no disadvantage" that the men from Saxony were in Europa League action on Thursday evening as "they maintained their rhythm. Competitive matches are different to friendlies. You're more focused."

"We've been able to implement more of our plans than expected," said the Sporting Director of the current situation, adding: "We're going into the season with great hope and we hope we can start with a good result against Leipzig."

"Every player will be important"

Favre is expecting a compact opponent that deploys a high-pressing game ("sometimes man on man") and "plays good football. I've seen their most recent games. Leipzig go forward with a lot of pace." Hence why the coach has issued a warning to his charges. "We need to be careful! When we attack, we can't go giving the ball away too easily."

While Marius Wolf picked up a minor knock in a training incident and may be rested as a preventative measure, Favre still has a plethora of attacking options at his disposal, both in terms of tactics and personnel. That, in turn, has led to some "tough calls" regarding selection. But the coach had a message for the players who will not be in action against Leipzig. "There'll be weeks with two fixtures all the way to Christmas. Every player will be important!"
Boris Rupert

Here's how they might line up
Facts on the match against Leipzig