by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, April 7 (Xinhua) -- Ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal showdown with Spanish powerhouse Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund is enjoying a notable shift in momentum.

Back-to-back Bundesliga victories-3-1 over Mainz and 4-1 away at Freiburg-have sparked renewed optimism that last season's Champions League finalist can not only close the gap domestically but also challenge the La Liga leaders.

"There are a lot of opportunities for us. We have a gigantic chance in the Champions League and can act without any pressure," said BVB goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.

The Swiss international's remarks reflect a broader mood change at the club, as Dortmund has trimmed its league deficit to just five points with six rounds remaining in the season.

Though they'll enter the clash with Barcelona as underdogs, Dortmund coach Niko Kovac says his squad is ready to embrace the moment. "This is what we all dreamt of as young boys," he said.

Adding intrigue to the club's current run are reports that former BVB defender and 2014 FIFA World Cup winner Mats Hummels-currently with AS Roma-could return to Dortmund in a front-office role, potentially as sporting director.

Before the Barcelona matches, Dortmund faces another high-profile challenge: this Saturday's Klassiker against Bayern Munich, a matchup that falls squarely between the two legs of the Champions League quarterfinal.

Still, the atmosphere around the club suggests an upset may be brewing.

"We have nothing to lose, but we can rely on the confidence that came back when we stuck to what worked in the last few league games," Kobel added.

Head coach Kovac now has more options at his disposal with the returns of striker Serhou Guirassy and midfielder Felix Nmecha. Former Bayern and Liverpool midfielder-and now TV pundit-Didi Hamann has gone so far as to back Dortmund for a semifinal spot.

"I wouldn't be surprised if they do it," said the 2005 Champions League winner. "Dortmund is my pick to go through."

The team's resurgence has also been fueled by improved performances from attackers Maximilian Beier, Karim Adeyemi and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens-not to mention Chelsea loanee Carney Chukwuemeka, who recently netted his first league goal for Dortmund. Reports indicate the club is considering activating its purchase option, reportedly valued at 35 million euros.

After weeks of doubt, Dortmund seems to have rediscovered its identity and drive.

"As it seems, most of us have understood that 100 percent passion is required-99 percent isn't enough," said captain Emre Can.

The German international added that the team's recent league success has helped clear their minds: "In dark times, you go to sleep with your head full of heavy thoughts."

"BVB is a great club with a great history," Can said. "We shouldn't forget that." Enditem

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