Kovac Urges Borussia Dortmund To Sharpen Senses Before Crucial Lille Return Leg

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Niko Kovac emphasised the need for Borussia Dortmund to improve their performance if they aim to reach the Champions League quarter-finals. After a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Augsburg, Dortmund sits 10th in the Bundesliga, trailing seven points behind the Champions League spots with nine matches remaining. Despite domestic struggles, they performed well in Europe, defeating Sporting CP and drawing 1-1 with Lille in their recent match.

Kovac addressed his team after the Augsburg loss, highlighting the necessity of refining their approach. "I processed the game on the weekend and addressed some things with the players," Kovac stated during a press conference. "I was clear and very direct and that was necessary after the Augsburg game. It is important to sharpen the senses." The team dominated possession but failed to convert chances, with only one shot on target from 15 attempts.

In their recent Bundesliga match, Dortmund's opponents scored with their sole attempt on Gregor Kobel's goal, despite having just 28.2% possession and an expected goals (xG) tally of 0.2. This inefficiency highlighted Dortmund's need for improvement ahead of their crucial Champions League clash at Stade Pierre-Mauroy against Lille.

The reaction from Dortmund fans following Saturday's defeat was intense, yet Kovac acknowledged it as justified. "It is clear it is not a comfortable feeling," he remarked. "But I said after the game that we have to face it. The reaction of the fans is understandable." He stressed that while this situation isn't ideal for Dortmund, it's essential to confront reality and learn from criticism.

Kovac believes that acknowledging these shortcomings can lead to better performances in future matches. "That is not the expectation of Dortmund, but it is the reality," he explained. "We cannot run away from it. We have to look facts in the eyes." He urged his players to heed criticism and avoid repeating past mistakes.

Despite current challenges, Kovac remains optimistic about his team's potential. "We have to bring a different performance," he asserted confidently. "But I know we have quality, and we have to draw on it." He expressed confidence that his team would display a stronger performance in their upcoming match against Lille.

The upcoming fixture holds significant importance for Borussia Dortmund as they aim to progress further in the Champions League. Kovac concluded by expressing determination: "Tomorrow is about a lot and we want to advance." His focus remains on ensuring his team delivers a performance worthy of advancing in Europe's elite competition.