Kovac Calls on Dortmund Fans to ‘Harness Their Energy’ Against Former Team Wolfsburg

Revitalised Borussia Dortmund will call on their passionate fanbase as the ’12th man’ when they face mid-table Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga. With a Champions League berth tantalisingly close after a challenging season, manager Niko Kovac expressed optimism on Friday.

After languishing in 11th position earlier this year, Dortmund have reversed their fortunes since Kovac’s arrival in February, currently sitting sixth, just three points shy of Freiburg, who hold the coveted fourth and final Champions League qualifying spot.

“We’re back in the hunt,” Kovac stated ahead of Saturday’s match at the 81,365-capacity Westfalenstadion.

“This match is crucial. Our focus is firmly on our opponents, as our fate still depends on other teams, and we must do our homework… It’s essential to replicate the energy we’ve displayed in our recent outings.

“If we play our game like we have in the past weeks, I believe we can generate an atmosphere that will be tough for Wolfsburg to handle.”

Dortmund have secured 13 points from their last five matches, propelling them up the table with three fixtures remaining to salvage their season.

If the Champions League eludes them, a spot in the Europa League is still a possibility, with RB Leipzig sitting fifth, just one point ahead of Dortmund.

Kovac, who previously managed Wolfsburg from 2022 to 2024, remains cautious about the Lower Saxony team, despite Dortmund’s impressive home record against them.

Dortmund have not suffered a defeat in their last 11 Bundesliga home encounters with Wolfsburg, claiming victory in nine of those matches. Wolfsburg has managed to score only once at Westfalenstadion since the 2016-17 season.

“They pose a threat from set pieces and during transitions. It’s something we need to be wary of,” Kovac cautioned.

“I’m looking forward to reuniting with everyone at Wolfsburg, yet we recognise the significance of this match. Friendships will be set aside for 90 minutes.”