The approach is clear as coach Peter Bosz explained to the members of the media at the pre-match press conference: "We need the points and we want to be in the competition after the winter break so we have to win," said the 55-year-old, who is well aware of the minimal chance of going through to the Champions League knockout stages, "but we will keep trying as long as the chance is there."
The Werkself have no points after three games and, with a goal difference of one for and six against, are in fourth place but they did perform well in the match in the Spanish capital. "We looked good there, worked hard and were very compact," said Bayer 04 defender Sven Bender at the press conference. "We saw that we can cause problems for Madrid with the way we play. We have the means to win a game like that against Atletico."
As in the last Bundesliga game against Borussia Mönchengladbach (1-2), coach Bosz has a full squad to choose from with the exception of the injured Daley Sinkgraven and skipper Lars Bender. Charles Aránguiz, who came on in the second half against Mönchengladbach, is fit again and is ready to play against Atletico who are currently second behind Juventus on seven points. "Everybody knows he's a good and important player for us. It will do us good to have him back," said Bosz whose anticipation ahead of the game is as great as his player Sven Bender feels.
The Werkself number five declared: "It's the Champions League. As a young boy, you dream about games like this. In these games you have to be there, give everything and try to go the extra mile. But you can enjoy it as well. If everything goes right then we have a chance of winning. And that's what we want to do!"
Anyone who wants to get into the mood before kick-off should make sure they catch the pre-match show with Stefan Kießling and Patrick Helmes. The two legendary strikers will look back at past highlights in the Champions League and share their predictions for the clash with Atletico. The show kicks off at 19.40 CET and can be seen on YouTube, Facebook and Bayer 04 TV.
Match information:
Attendance: Bayer 04 are expecting a sell-out in the home areas at the BayArena.
Referee: Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Live TV broadcaster: DAZN
Matchday hashtag: #B04Atleti
Calling all Bayer 04 fans: The Werkself will play Pisa SC, newly promoted to Serie A, at the BayArena as part of the season opener. The clash with the club from Tuscany is on Tuesday, 5 August with the kick-off at 18:00 CET. Entrance to the stadium with a wide range of entertainment provided is possible from 15:00 CEST. Read on for information on ticket sales for the season opener.
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Several Bayer 04 Legends, Bayer executives, club officials, current defender Arthur and, of course, dozens of enthusiastic children turned out on Saturday on the south side of Sao Paulo for the official opening of the Bayer 04 Football Academy, located at Club Bayer on the campus of Bayer Brazil.
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A great night for 'Calle': Bayer 04 new signing Carlotta Wamser helped Germany to an opening win in the Women's Euro in Switzerland with an impressive performance. After coming on as a substitute in the 2-0 victory over Poland in Group C, the winger provided an assist and helped set up the second goal. The 21-year-old earned great praise from her coach and teammates in her first tournament match.
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