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Coach Niko Kovac says Borussia Dortmund are fully embracing their role as underdogs ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final against Real Madrid in the Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.
A Chance for Redemption
- Borussia were trailing last year’s Champions League final 2–0, and Real Madrid have beaten them in their last four encounters .
- But Kovac insists his players are “riding high” on an 11-game unbeaten streak, entering the clash with full self-belief.
Confidence to Compete
- Kovac stressed how important high self-confidence will be, reminding his squad of their ability to compete with top teams—even Real Madrid.
- Since his arrival in February, Dortmund have been revitalized, revitalizing both performance and morale.
Tough Conditions Ahead
- Facing a strongly pro-Madrid crowd and sweltering East Rutherford heat, Dortmund see this as the perfect opportunity to play free from pressure, not as favorites but with everything to gain.
Tactical Edge & Team Resurgence
- Dortmund’s upward trajectory—including a strong Bundesliga finish to secure Champions League qualification—gives Kovac reassurance ahead of this tough fixture.
- The match also serves as a test of their revamped defensive structure (3–4–3) and potent attack, including players like Guirassy and Adeyemi, who have flourished under Kovac’s system.
Kovac Says It Best
“We’re here as an underdog but we also want to show our best face … We need high self-confidence when we face Real Madrid.” .
His words underline a mindset shift: Dortmund no longer fear the giants—they believe they can match them.
What’s Next
- Dortmund will lean into self-belief, treat Real Madrid as another elite side they can upset.
- The quarter-final presents a redemption arc—this time, with the confidence and freshness that Kovac says his squad possesses.
- If Dortmund reproduce their peak form, there’s real belief they might overturn history.
