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**Dortmund Embraces Underdog Status as They Seek Revenge Against Real Madrid in Club World Cup**

**EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ (Reuters) -** Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac has embraced the underdog label heading into their Club World Cup quarter-final clash against Real Madrid on Saturday. The Bundesliga side aims to avenge their Champions League final defeat from last year.

Speaking to reporters at MetLife Stadium on Friday, Kovac acknowledged the challenge of facing the La Liga giants, who are unbeaten in their last six meetings. He also anticipates a strong pro-Madrid crowd in what is expected to be a packed stadium.

“We’re expecting a lot of supporters, especially for Real Madrid,” Kovac said. “We’re here as an underdog but we also want to show our best face and hopefully we can pass to the next round.”

Despite entering the match on an 11-game unbeaten streak, Dortmund faces a daunting task against a team that defeated them 2-0 in the Champions League final and has won their last four meetings.

However, the German side hopes their recent resurgence under Kovac, who took over in February, will help them defy the odds. The Croatian manager emphasized the need for high self-confidence.

“We need high self-confidence when we face Real Madrid,” Kovac stated, highlighting their ability to compete against top opponents. “I think this is a big reason for me to believe in my players – they know exactly what is necessary tomorrow to be on [the] highest level.”

Dortmund finished fourth in the Bundesliga last season, and the Club World Cup match is scheduled for Saturday under what is expected to be a scorching day in New Jersey.

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