The Borussia Dortmund players were delighted to progress past FC Zenit and into the last eight of the Champions League. “We are very proud of what we’ve achieved,” said Sebastian Kehl, while Kevin Grosskreutz admitted he would like to be drawn against FC Barcelona in the quarter-finals, though he would also look forward to a reunion with Shinji Kagawa.

Sebastian Kehl: “We are very, very happy that we are through to the quarter-finals, in spite of the defeat. We are very proud of what we have achieved as we are again among the best eight teams in Europe. We must not forget the many problems we’ve had recently. Let’s see who we are drawn against on Friday. Looking at the eight teams remaining in the competition, there’s no easy draw.”

Mats Hummels: “Our goal was to advance to the next round. We’ve achieved that, so the overriding emotion is one of joy. Of course, we would have rather done without been given a scare in last 15 minutes, but in the end all that matters is that we are through to the next round. It is clear, though, that due to our injury problems we will be the underdogs in the quarters – no matter who we face. It would probably be a different story had we our full squad available. In general, however, it really doesn’t matter because we still have a chance to beat any team.”

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang: “It wasn’t an easy game, but the most important thing is that we have reached the next round. It hasn’t been an easy season for us, what makes it all the more impressive that we have progressed to the next round.”

Kevin Grosskreutz: “I’m very happy that we are through to the quarters. That we’ve achieved this is, considering the many injuries and setbacks we have had to deal with this season, a huge thing. We are proud of ourselves. I would like to be drawn against FC Barcelona next as we haven’t played them yet, and I’ve never been there. It would a huge experience for the team, and also the fans. Manchester United would also be fine with me, because it would be great to meet Shinji Kagawa again.”