Kovac Eyes Bayern’s Champions League Setback to Gain Edge in Klassiker Showdown

Bayern Munich’s recent defeat to Inter Milan in the Champions League could act as a distraction for the Bavarians as they prepare for the Klassiker against Borussia Dortmund this Saturday. Dortmund’s coach, Niko Kovac, emphasised the need for his side to capitalise on this opportunity during a press conference on Friday.

Bayern faced a 2-1 defeat at home in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday, with the return fixture scheduled for next week in Milan.

Kovac’s team, which suffered a heavy 4-0 loss to Barcelona in their own quarter-final, effectively ending their Champions League hopes, noted that Bayern may be preoccupied with their upcoming match in Italy and their chances of progressing.

“Bayern have a significant challenge in Milan trying to turn the tie around,” Kovac stated. “Mentally, they might be focused on the match in Milan, and we need to exploit that while we are in Munich.

“However, this can only happen if we are operating at 100%. If we do not give our all, it will be challenging to secure a favourable result.”

Bayern lead the Bundesliga standings with 68 points, six ahead of second-placed Bayer Leverkusen, while Dortmund are positioned eighth with 41 points, five behind the fourth place that ensures automatic Champions League qualification.

Kovac mentioned that his team needed to demonstrate far more sharpness than they displayed against Barcelona if they were to pose any threat in Munich.

“In football, collective effort is essential, and we failed to achieve that against Barcelona,” he remarked.

“That is the issue I have highlighted, and we must rectify it for tomorrow’s match because Bayern also possess world-class talent. Without that commitment, it will be difficult in Munich. This is what I will insist on tomorrow as well.”