Hoffenheim out to make history at Anfield

Hoffenheim head to Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool hoping to make history by overturning a 2-1 deficit in Wednesday’s Champions League second-leg, play-off to become the first German team to win at Anfield.

The Reds looked to have secure a spot in the group phase after going 2-0 up in last week’s first leg in Germany, only for Mark Uth’s 87th-minute reply to bring Hoffenheim right back into the tie.

The German side are bidding to reach the Champions League’s group stage for the first time in the club’s history.

They are yet to lose at home to German opposition in 14 matches at home in European competition with 11 wins and three draws.

“There is always the first time, we want to win the game, but there is the additional attraction of writing our own success story,” Hoffenheim’s 24-year-old Germany midfielder Kerem Demirbay told German daily Bild.

“It’s a great time to write history.”

Although Liverppol need to score at least twice, Demirbay insists the Germans will not be intimidated by Anfield, but are full of respect for Klopp’s side.

“One has to say, they are simply a good team, but we are also good,” said Demirbay.[spacer height=”20px”]

“We’re not Liverpool, but we can go there with our heads held high and play without fear.

“We’re good enough to survive there too and score at least two goals.”

Demirbay says the novelty of playing in the electric atmosphere of Anfield will motivate the Germans.

“It can also give us a push, because none of us have experienced an atmosphere like Anfield.

“I won’t be intimidated, quite the opposite.

“I think it’s great when you come across a mood like that in a stadium. It’s inspiring.”