Dortmund Coach Niko Kovac Confident of Turning Season Around

Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac says his team must start winning again to boost confidence and turn their season around.

Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac emphasized the importance of securing a win in their upcoming Bundesliga game against Union Berlin on Saturday. Kovac stressed that the three points are crucial not only for climbing the table but also for boosting the team's confidence. “We have to win the game tomorrow because we need the three points not only to climb up the table but more for us, for the team, for the confidence to feel that we can win games again,” Kovac told a press conference on Friday.

Dortmund's current form is a concern, having lost both of their domestic league games under Kovac, who took over as coach in late January. The team is currently in 11th place in the Bundesliga, eight points behind fourth-placed Leipzig. With only the top four teams qualifying for the Champions League next season, Dortmund risk missing out on Europe's premier club competition.

🎙️ Kovac:

"Daniel Svensson has played three sensationally good games. He makes few mistakes and is always available. He comes from Denmark, doesn't speak a word of German and fitted in immediately. That was great." #BVBFCU

— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) February 21, 2025

Despite the challenges, Kovac remains optimistic about Dortmund's chances. “We are not too far behind,” he said, highlighting the need for a win to restore the team's confidence. With a crucial Champions League Round of 16 match against Lille on the horizon, Dortmund will be looking to bounce back with a win against Union Berlin.

Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac acknowledged that despite the team's struggles in the Bundesliga, he has seen progress in training and team discussions. Kovac expressed optimism that this progress will eventually translate to positive results.

🎙️ Kovac:

"Carney still needs a little time. We know what he can do. But we need him completely fit."#BVBFCU pic.twitter.com/tcL608sH5M

— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) February 21, 2025

Dortmund's recent form in the Bundesliga has been underwhelming, with only one win in their last seven matches. However, the team did manage to ease into the Champions League knockout stage with a 3-0 aggregate win over Sporting. Kovac previewed the upcoming match against Union Berlin, saying, “We expect Union will be a very aggressive game.”

Kovac emphasized the importance of securing a win at home against Union Berlin. “We play at home and we have to show that we want to win the game,” he said. The coach reiterated his team's desire to succeed, stating, “We want to win games. We want to be winners. That is why we are here.” Despite the current challenges, Kovac remains hopeful, saying, “We know the situation and it is not easy but there is no reason to paint everything black now. I believe after the rain comes the sun.”