Challenges for Borussia Dortmund Ahead of Champions League Knockouts

In February 2025, Borussia Dortmund finds itself in a precarious situation as it prepares for the upcoming Champions League knockout stage. After suffering a disappointing 0-2 defeat in the Bundesliga against Bochum, the team is seeking to regain its footing, yet struggles to entertain its 80,000 fans. Current performances have left much to be desired, leading to a candid acknowledgment from the club's sporting director regarding the lack of excitement surrounding the team's play.

New head coach Niko Kovac has highlighted the complexity of his task at Borussia Dortmund, describing it as a 'delicate matter.' This reflects the significant challenge he faces in revitalizing a team that appears to lack confidence and cohesion. With the number of matches limiting effective training, Kovac expressed concerns about the quality of practice sessions, stating that they are currently insufficient for improving the team's performance.

As Dortmund gears up to face Union Berlin in a critical Bundesliga match, the stakes are high. The team is at risk of falling further behind in the race for European competition. The recent form has left fans questioning whether a victory is assured, and the pressure is mounting for Kovac to deliver results.

Under Kovac's management, Dortmund has played four matches, managing only one victory--a 3-0 win against Sporting Lisbon. This was offset by a scoreless draw and two league losses, emphasizing the team's struggles. The recent performance against Sporting, despite a clean sheet, was marked by a lack of offensive prowess, as the team faced a weakened opponent missing key players.

The growing distance from Champions League qualification exacerbates issues for both Kovac and sporting director Sebastian Kehl. A lack of dominant performances has characterized Dortmund's recent outings, with crucial players underperforming and failing to convert opportunities. The defensive line has seen a midfielder, Emre Can, stepping in due to the inadequacy of regular defenders, while top talents such as Jamie Gittens and Karim Adeyemi have not been able to find the back of the net in recent matches.

As the team grapples with these challenges, the implications for their future are significant. Not only does the current form jeopardize their chances of qualifying for next season's Champions League, but it also risks diminishing the market value of players who could otherwise be sold for profit. Kehl remains hopeful about Gittens, emphasizing the need to restore his confidence and creativity on the pitch.

In summary, Borussia Dortmund faces a critical juncture as it navigates its way through a challenging league and Champions League schedule. The team must rediscover its competitive edge and address its inconsistencies to secure a more favorable outcome in the coming weeks.