Dortmund’s Niko Kovac Aims for European Glory to Boost Bundesliga Performance

Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac has urged his squad to treat their league clash against RB Leipzig on Saturday as if it were a Champions League encounter, in the hopes that some of their recent European success can translate into improved performances in the Bundesliga.

Kovac’s side secured their place in the Champions League quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory against Lille in France on Wednesday, resulting in a 3-2 aggregate win. However, their domestic league form has been markedly different.

Having managed just three wins in their last 10 league fixtures, Dortmund has plummeted to 10th position and faces the real danger of missing out on Champions League football next season.

Currently, they sit on 35 points, while Eintracht Frankfurt holds fourth place with 42 points. The top four clubs earn a spot in Europe’s elite club competition.

“If it were that simple, we would have already done it,” Kovac remarked at a press conference on Friday, in response to a question about whether he might consider playing the Champions League anthem in the dressing room to motivate his players.

“I have faith that the team understands that we will be competing against Leipzig tomorrow in the league, but it is also a Champions League side, a formidable opponent that we must perform well against.”

Although Leipzig participated in the Champions League group stage, they failed to progress to the knockout rounds.

“I believe this will serve as extra motivation to play as we did in Lille,” Kovac continued. “To demonstrate that unwavering commitment, that sense of unity, everything that has made us successful. That is essential for a winning performance.”

Similarly, Leipzig have also struggled recently, having secured just one win in their last nine Bundesliga matches, placing them sixth with 39 points.

“Leipzig aren’t in the position they’d like to be in. With one win, six draws, and two losses, I still regard Leipzig as a robust side. They didn’t play during the week, so they’ll be fresher,” Kovac added.