That “Augsburg spirit” is back

Following the bitter disappointment of conceding with the last kick of the game to draw 1-1 with Borussia Mönchengladbach last weekend, FC Augsburg's focus is now solely on Borussia Dortmund. FCA take on BVB at the WWK Arena on Saturday, 13th May (15:30 CEST). FCA defender Jan-Ingwer Callsen-Bracker has respect for Dortmund, but does not fear them. "These kinds of games can bring out the best in you. If we have our fans behind us and push ourselves to the limit, then we can beat Dortmund." Manuel Baum also shares the same view. "The aim is three points." He also had positive news to report on the personnel situation. Baum may well start with the same starting XI for the third match in a row. "The way they've been working so well together and the rhythm they have found is something we have been missing this season." Alongside the injured Jan Moravek and Ja-Cheol Koo, Gojko Kacar has some minor issues with his back. It remains to be seen as to whether or not he will be available for Saturday. Despite the good form, Baum is aware that "we will also need to get that bit of luck on Saturday to take something away from this game." That is not just because Dortmund are extremely difficult to predict and are very versatile, but they also have huge quality going forward. Moreover BVB also frequently change their tactics midway through matches, meaning that Augsburg will have to make sure they are ready and alert for whatever is thrown at them. Baum and Callsen-Bracker were in agreement about the fact that the results of all other matches will not be shown during the game at the WWK ARENA. "We just want to concentrate on our game. Scores from other matches will only be a source of distraction. We want to focus on achieving our collective goal." The togetherness in the team and the club as a whole is huge, said Callsen-Bracker. "If you look at the last two matches here at the WWK ARENA and then also the discussion with the fans after the short training camp we had, then you have to give the fans huge credit. You can sense that special Augsburg spirit. The motto AUGSBURG STANDS TOGETHER is really evident." It is something that once again gave the team that extra motivation boost. Callsen-Bracker stressed that there is also "a healthy structure that has been developing over many years" within the squad. Everyone takes their fair share of responsibility and will be ready to take on Dortmund on Saturday!