Dortmund’s Recent Performance
Dortmund secured a 2-0 victory at home last week, with first-half goals from Serhou Guirassy and Maximilian Beier. This result places them in a favorable position as they prepare for the second leg of their knockout tie.
Historical Context
Historically, teams with a two-goal lead in the first leg have a strong track record in European competitions, with only 15 of 126 sides failing to advance. Dortmund has progressed from seven of nine knockout ties when winning the first leg, indicating a solid chance for advancement.
Coach’s Strategy
Dortmund’s coach, Niko Kovac, emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and not becoming complacent. He stated, “We’re definitely not coming here to manage the game and the result. That won’t get us anywhere.” Kovac aims for his team to impose their game and believes that scoring early could boost their confidence.
Team Updates
In terms of personnel, Kovac will welcome back key players Emre Can and Nico Schlotterbeck, both of whom have completed full training sessions. Their return is expected to strengthen the team’s performance. However, Niklas Sule and Filippo Mane remain sidelined due to injuries.
Off-Field Tensions
The match is also surrounded by off-field tensions, including a recent incident where Atalanta’s head coach Raffaele Palladino made headlines for his disrespectful gesture towards Kovac. Additionally, Dortmund fans have announced a full boycott of the match due to strict policing measures, further complicating the atmosphere surrounding the game.
Conclusion
As Dortmund prepares for this crucial match, the combination of a strong first-leg performance, strategic coaching, and the return of key players will play a significant role in their quest for advancement in the tournament.
