Dundalk are gunning for Arsenal and boss Filippo Giovagnoli roared: “We fear nobody”.
“You are afraid if you go to war and you have to kill somebody or be killed," said the Italian, who will now be appointed full-time. "But for a football game, no. It's pure excitement and there’s nothing to be afraid of."
Dundalk open against Norwegian champions Molde at Aviva Stadium on October 22 before facing Arsenal at the Emirates a week later.
Back-to-back games - away and then home - to Rapid Vienna follow in November before closing out away to Molde and home to Arsenal in December.
In 2016, Stephen Kenny’s Lilywhites bagged four points from their six group games against Zenit St Petersburg, AZ Alkmaar and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
But rookie boss Giovagnoli is determined to go one better and said: “Let's do five. Let's try to do five points. Let's beat the record!
“Playing at the Emirates Stadium is a dream for everyone, but we can perform against any team. We’ve nothing to lose and I’m the proof that anything is possible in life.”
On Thursday, UEFA announced it will allow 30% of capacity into all international and club games under its jurisdiction - pending local approval.
That means up to 15,000 Dundalk fans could be in attendance at Aviva Stadium if the Dublin lockdown is lifted.
“The most important thing is whether we can have fans,” said Giovagnoli. “Aviva is unbelievable but just imagine if we had our friends there what it could be.”
The 49-year-old succeeded Vinny Perth on a short-term, three-month deal in August but is about to land a long-term stay.
Bill Hulsizer, the club’s American chairman, said last night: "I'd be happy for him to be our coach full-time going forward.
"It's just a matter of negotiating a contract and seeing what he wants to do. Life is like a turtle. You can't get anywhere unless you stick your neck out.”
And Giovagnoli said: “I want to be here for a long time because if you want to build a football project you will need time.
“The only way to make something successful and consolidate the strategy is for the multiple seasons.”
And in a nod to Perth, Giovagnoli added: "You have to say thank you to the coaching staff that was here before and was successful.
“It's through them that the club and the team have this achievement.”
