Behringer: Arsenal can challenge Frankfurt
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
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Melanie Behringer rates 1. FFC Frankfurt's chances as "50-50" as they face Arsenal LFC in the semi-finals, but the ex-FC Bayern München winger is eager to reach the Munich final.
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Melanie Behringer's only previous UEFA Women's Champions League campaign prior to this year – with FC Bayern München in 2009/10 – was cut short by injury. This season, however, the Germany winger has helped new club 1. FFC Frankfurt to the semi-finals, where they visit Arsenal LFC on Sunday for the first leg. The incentive of a final at Munich's Olympiastadion is driving Behringer on.
How would you rate your chances of playing Arsenal in the semi-final?
Melanie Behringer: Right now I would say 50-50. We want to have a good game in London and put ourselves in a good position for the second leg in Frankfurt. I think we just have to work well as a team and then I have high hopes we will be successful.
What are the qualities of your opponents?
Behringer: Personally, I don't know that much about them, but my coach has already told me they are a really strong side, especially their internationals, and this will be a big task for us. But I am looking forward to it, as it is something special to play in the Champions League and we will see who will be the winners in the end.
What will be the key to success?
Behringer: We have to work as a team and each player has to work for each other and we all have to go to great lengths.
Is it a special motivation that the final will be played in Munich?
Behringer: Definitely, and especially for me, as I have never been that far in the Champions League. I have never been in a Champions League semi-final and it would be great to reach the final in Munich.
Are you dreaming of an all-German final against 1. FFC Turbine Potsdam?
Behringer: Why not? As long as I am in the final with my team, I do not care that much which team will be our opponents.
What is the fascination with the Champions League final?
Behringer: It is something special, as you can prove on an international stage what you are capable of. The attendance is higher than in the Bundesliga, there is a special atmosphere and it is just fun.
Interview courtesy of the German Football Association
