Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac says his aspect have to indicate ‘a totally completely different face’ within the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final towards Barcelona
Former Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski scored twice because the German aspect had been thrashed 4-0 by Barcelona last week within the first leg.
However Dortmund have made a behavior of saving their finest kind for the Champions League, reaching the ultimate final yr, and can hope for a legendary comeback at house.
Barcelona are but to face defeat in 2025 however Kovac desires his aspect to battle.
He mentioned: “We all know the scenario. We wish to present a totally completely different face tomorrow than within the first leg and win the sport.
⬛️ For the badge. 🟨 pic.twitter.com/S0wMX1Bbif
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) April 14, 2025
“There are all the time miracles, however we additionally know that Barcelona haven’t misplaced a aggressive recreation but this yr.
“We’ve to be there from the primary minute tomorrow and get the followers on our aspect. We’ll solely get the mandatory wind from them, the willingness to run, efficiency and keenness.”
Dortmund, who’ve additionally struggled within the Bundesliga and are eighth within the standings on 42 factors, may very well be with out captain Emre Can for the return leg in Germany towards treble-chasing Barca.
“We rested Emre in coaching right this moment. He’s had muscular issues in his adductor space for weeks now and he’s all the time gritting his enamel,” Kovac mentioned.
“It’s a must to emphasise that. It’s potential he received’t play tomorrow, we’ll need to see.”
Kovac additionally hailed midfielder Felix Nmecha, who returned to the workforce earlier this month after a prolonged absence on account of a knee damage, including: “Felix has developed very nicely as a participant and as an individual.
“He can do all the things on the ball, has nice dynamics and is a whole participant. After his lengthy damage, he’s nonetheless slightly behind by way of health.”
