Wolfsburg head coach Tommy Stroot stressed how important his side's Women's Champions League quarter-final against Barcelona was for both teams ahead of the first leg on Wednesday.

The German side qualified for the last eight after finishing second in Group A, having won three and lost three of their six matches.

They come into this on the back of a 3-1 defeat to Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, but Stroot appreciates the gravity of this tournament.

"I think Barca absolutely want to win this title, the Champions League. This is a situation where they have a lot to play for, and we have a lot to play for," he said.

"The Bayern game was a defeat that hurt, but also a game that was decided in specific moments. In big games like the Champions League quarter-finals, it's important to be there in the important moments."

The mood from Strott is echoed by Wolfsburg forward Lineth Beerensteyn, who suggested that the players were heading into the game in good spirits and had put the previous result out of their minds.

"Everyone has a good feeling. Of course, we know it will be a difficult game," she said.

"But we are mentally and physically ready for it. We've had good training sessions and are all looking forward to this great game."

The two teams have not met since 2023 final, which Barcelona came from two goals down to win 3-2 in Eindhoven.

Barcelona head coach Pere Romeu is expecting another competitive tie against the two-time European champions.

"It's a very important match for us. We expect a very direct Wolfsburg, so we will have to try to establish control by keeping hold of possession," she said.

"We have a very competitive squad, whoever plays. We will try to be at our best to take home the win."

Forward Ewa Pajor played for Wolfsburg in the 2023 final before moving to Barcelona in June 2024. The Poland international is looking forward to playing against the team where she spent nine years of her career.

"It will be a very special match," she said. "I played here [for Wolfsburg] for nine years, so of course it will be special. I will give 100% for Barcelona, but it will be a difficult match because Wolfsburg play very aggressively.

"The Champions League is unique. I know that Wolfsburg will be very strong opponents, but we want to play our best. I don't know who are the favourites; we can only find out on the pitch. We are preparing for a great match and we hope to win."