Gigi Buffon said Juventus are “curious to measure ourselves up” against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
The first leg of the Round of 16 kicks off on Tuesday at the Juventus Stadium at 19.45 GMT.
“I hope this isn’t the game of the season, as that would mean there are few bigger ones in front of us! We all hope to have many more prestigious clashes,” replied the goalkeeper in a Press conference.
Gigi Buffon said Juventus are “curious to measure ourselves up” against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
The first leg of the Round of 16 kicks off on Tuesday at the Juventus Stadium at 19.45 GMT.
“I hope this isn’t the game of the season, as that would mean there are few bigger ones in front of us! We all hope to have many more prestigious clashes,” replied the goalkeeper in a Press conference.
“Depending on age, every player experiences the eve of a game differently. The younger player will have the eagerness to prove himself on the international stage. The more experienced player is proud that despite his age he can still compete for the top levels.
“In the Juve locker room we have the desire to keep this dream going for as long as possible. We are also fully aware of the fact we are taking on a team that is very tough, that two years ago played in the Final and this season won their group with real authority.
“So even if they’re not doing that well domestically, this shows that in competitions with one-off games and a big reward up for grabs, they can get the best out of themselves.
“I am fully convinced Borussia Dortmund are one of the best sides in Europe and can beat anyone. At the same time, we are curious to see what progress we have made in this tournament.”
Buffon was furious with his Juventus teammates after they fumbled a lead for their 2-2 draw at relegation candidates Cesena.
“I got angry with myself at Cesena. With Atalanta it wasn’t our best performance, but that wasn’t the main issue. Tomorrow nobody can possibly lack commitment and focus from the first to the last minute.
“If we win or lose, we will do it without regrets, because everyone gives the best they possibly can at that moment. I doubt anyone will hold back or risk getting complacent. Our aim is to play the second leg with the possibility of qualifying.
“After a ‘sabbatical’ last year, we got back to our European journey. We are all curious and motivated to measure ourselves up against sides that have been challenging at the top of European football for a few years and Borussia Dortmund are one of them.
“I hope that compared to two years ago many of us are more confident of our capabilities. I hope we have all made steps forward in terms of football, belief and awareness. We also have a few more individuals who have joined the squad and could give us an extra hand.
“I don’t know if we are stronger than Borussia or not. I just know that I am curious to see how good we can be.”
Buffon shot an ad with Borussia star Marco Reus, so was asked about his opinions.
“He’s certainly a great talent and a player who can shake things up, as he has qualities above the norm. He is coming off a pretty long injury lay-off, so I hope he’s not at 100 per cent. If he were, it would be an extra problem for us.”