Schaaf: Our attack can worry Dortmund

Werder Bremen coach Thomas Schaaf believes his team’s attacking prowess can upset reigning Bundesliga champions Borussia Dortmund.

Bremen, who finished ninth last season, will head to Dortmund on Friday for the opening match of the 2012/13 Bundesliga season and Schaaf believes they must press the home side.

While the loss of key playmaker Marko Marin to Chelsea will definitely hurt Bremen, Belgian attacking midfielder Kevin de Bruyne’s loan move the other way should help, while Schaaf has also brought in Dutch winger Eljero Elia from Italian champions Juventus.

The 51-year-old coach is confident his new attackers will succeed.

“We are able to do surprising and special things in the offense,” Schaaf said.

“That has to be our goal.

“We must challenge our opponents.

“When we get the ball we cannot think too long, we have to make our game fast and get in front of the goal.

“In many of our test matches that already worked out really well.”

Schaaf knows how difficult Bremen’s opening test in Dortmund will be but remains hopeful his team can test the champions.

Dortmund have impressed over the past two seasons with high-tempo attacking football and with Bremen set to attack, Schaaf predicts the game will be entertaining.

“Dortmund is a team that wants to dominate a match,” Schaaf said.

“They are very active and want to score goals.

“I think we can expect some kind of an open game – at least I hope so and especially for the fans I expect a highly attractive game.”