Dortmund 'want to show completely different face' vs FC Barcelona in second leg, says Kovac

IANS April 14, 2025 154 views

Borussia Dortmund face an almost impossible task in their UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Barcelona. Trailing 4-0 from the first match, the German side need a historic performance to progress in the competition. Head coach Niko Kovac is calling for maximum effort and passion from his players at Signal Iduna Park. Despite the challenging scenario, Dortmund will look to restore pride and show their competitive spirit against the Spanish giants.

"We want to show a completely different face tomorrow" - Niko Kovac
Dortmund, April 14: FC Barcelona ran through the Borussia Dortmund lineup on their way to a comprehensive victory in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. Head coach Niko Kovac wants his side to show a completely different face when they host Hansi Flick’s side in the second leg at Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday (IST).

Key Points

1

Dortmund need four-goal win to progress in Champions League

2

Barcelona unbeaten in 2024 so far

3

Kovac calls for early match intensity

FC Barcelona won the first leg by a 4-0 scoreline and Borussia Dortmund will need to win by a four-goal margin to force extra-time. BVB have prevailed in seven of their 10 prior knockout ties with Spanish clubs, but they have never overcome a deficit of more than two goals from the first leg in their European history.

"We are aware of the situation. We want to show a completely different face tomorrow than in the first leg and win the game. There are always miracles, but we also know that Barcelona haven't lost a competitive game yet this year,” said Kovac in the pre-game conference.

The Black & Yellows have lost only one of their last 17 UEFA Champions League home games, registering 10 victories and six draws during that run. The goal ratio during that period stands at 34-10. They have only conceded goals in six of those 17 home matches. FC Barcelona are unbeaten in 15 consecutive away matches across all competitions (12 wins and three draws) since losing 1-0 in San Sebastian on November 10, 2024.

The most recent meeting between the two clubs at the venue was only four months ago when Borussia Dortmund fell to a 3-2 defeat on Matchday 6 of the league phase. Kovac also stressed the importance of turning on from the very first minute of the game.

"We have to be there from the first minute tomorrow and get the fans on our side. We can only get the necessary wind from them through willingness to run, performance and passion,” he added.

Reader Comments

M
Marcus T.
As a Dortmund fan, I appreciate Kovac's fighting spirit but let's be real - 4-0 is nearly impossible to overturn against this Barca side. Still, hoping for a respectable performance at home! 💛🖤
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Sophie K.
That first leg was painful to watch. Kovac's right about needing the fans - Signal Iduna Park can be magical on European nights. Even if we don't advance, let's at least restore some pride!
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Javier R.
Respectfully, I think Kovac's tactics were the main problem in the first leg. Too defensive from the start. If they want a miracle, they need to attack from minute one with that amazing home crowd behind them.
L
Lena B.
The stats about Dortmund's home form give me hope! Maybe not for advancing, but at least for a good showing. That 34-10 goal ratio is impressive 👏
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Tomás F.
As a neutral, I'd love to see an epic comeback attempt! Football needs more drama like this. Dortmund at home with nothing to lose could be dangerous... or it could be another long night.
A
Aisha M.
The Yellow Wall will be rocking! Even if the tie is lost, this could be a statement game for Dortmund's season. Show everyone what you're made of! 🔥

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Tags:
UEFA Champions League Borussia Dortmund FC Barcelona Niko Kovac Football Comeback
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