Leverkusen v Atlético: fixture facts and reaction

• The teams' sole previous meetings came in the 2010/11 UEFA Europa League group stage, the games in both Madrid and Leverkusen ending 1-1. It was the German side who progressed, however, finishing first in Group B; Atlético, then holders, came third and were eliminated, the matchday six draw at Leverkusen curtailing their interest in the competition.

• Leverkusen won home (2-1) and away (1-0) against Real Sociedad de Fútbol in last season's group stage; in contrast, they went down 7-1 at FC Barcelona in their 2011/12 round of 16 second leg, still their biggest European defeat.

• Atlético have won on three of their last five trips to Germany, most recently a 2-1 success at Hannover 96 in their 2011/12 UEFA Europa League quarter-final second leg. That completed a 4-2 aggregate triumph; Atlético went on to lift the trophy for the second time in three years.

Roger Schmidt, Leverkusen coach
I am already looking forward to the games. Atlético are a great draw and very attractive opposition. We are looking forward to two really interesting matches against the Champions League finalists of last year. Even though they have continuously improved in recent years, we think we have our chances. We will prepare for the tie very well. Of course we will try to get through. The round of 16 should not be our final destination.

Simon Rolfes, Leverkusen captain
This draw is a big challenge for us. Atlético are Spanish champions and currently third in the Liga behind Real Madrid and Barcelona. They are an incredibly strong side, so we will naturally have a difficult time. But we trust ourselves to pose them problems. I am very much looking forward to the games.

Rudi Völler, Leverkusen sporting director
Atlético have a strong team. They play a game which involves a lot of running. It will be a difficult task, but we want to take our chance there.

Gabi, Atlético captain 
They are a very good team, it will be very tough. We have not underestimated anyone these past three years we have been together and we will not do so now. On paper there were more powerful teams in the draw but German teams know how to compete very well and we are going to have a very difficult time. First we have to win at Leverkusen before we can think of other teams, but to win in Leverkusen will be very difficult.

Clemente Villaverde, Atlético director
The fact we are here again, in the 16 best teams in Europe, is very important and significant for the club. Now in terms of the draw, Leverkusen are a team we already know and have faced before. We have a very good relationship with them. We hope we can get to the next round.

Playing the first game away or at home cannot be that much of a determining factor. But it is important from the point of view that we were first in our group, we won and we are entitled to be here. I don't think [Atlético are favourites]. I believe the success we have had has always come from the respect we have for opponents. Then we use the weapons of hard work and modesty. We will continue the way we are used to working.