Streller targets Porto, Basel seek history

The last memory Marco Streller has of a UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie was trudging off after FC Basel 1893's 7-0 loss at the hands FC Bayern München. With the Swiss champions back in this stage for the first time since that chastening 2011/12 experience, their captain is confident his side will be better for that experience when they face FC Porto this time around.

"It was quite a harsh blow but we learned some key lessons," said the 33-year-old forward. "Bayern won the Champions League a year later, they were one of the best teams in the world. But we learned our lessons, and we are a step further in the mental aspect now."

That campaign was not without successes – including a first-leg win against Bayern and a 2-1 home success over Manchester United FC – and this season a home win against Liverpool FC followed up by a matchday six draw at Anfield has helped Basel reach the knockout phase for the second time. "We deservedly qualified," said Streller. "We're very proud that we are able to do something great on the European scene."

The Swiss international is hoping the winter break – Streller scored in the club's return from a two-month hiatus on 8 February – will ensure Basel are fresh. "We took some distance, we focused. That does a lot of good, it gives you some balance, it is important. Naturally we are looking forward to it, we are intensively preparing. Half of our training staff are Portuguese; they know Porto very well and we fully trust them."

One of those staff members is coach Paulo Sousa, once a player at Porto's great rivals SL Benfica and Sporting Clube de Portugal, and Streller is sure his insider knowledge can make the difference. "His role will be crucial. We trust him. If anyone knows Portuguese football well then it has to be him. It can be a real asset that Paulo and his staff know Porto like the back of their hand. We are playing attractive football that bears the signature of our coach, and we're all very happy about it."

Though they have avoided last season's finalists Club Atlético de Madrid in the draw as well as FC Barcelona, Chelsea FC and Bayern, Porto – who cruised through Group H undefeated – provide a stern test, one Streller is refusing to underestimate. "They have won the Champions League in the past, they've always had great players," he said. "At the moment they also have great players, so it will be a difficult game for us; we're aware of that. Porto are the clear favourites."

Two games away from making history by helping the club getting to the quarter-finals for the first time, the former VfB Stuttgart attacker knows his side can cause an upset but will not get ahead of himself. "I'm certain that we stand a chance in the two games, but at the same time we've always struggled against Portuguese teams in the past. That's why it will be very difficult. We are talking about the round of 16 in the Champions League; there are only good opponents left. That's why we are looking forward to this encounter very much."