Borussia Dortmund boss Niko Kovac is calling on his team to bring their A-game as they gear up to face Juventus in their first Champions League match of the season. The German side, who were runners-up in the competition in 2023-24, are looking to make a strong start after reaching the quarter-finals last season.
Kovac, who took over in January and has overseen an unbeaten start to the Bundesliga campaign, is aware of Dortmund’s poor away record against Italian teams in the Champions League. However, he remains optimistic about their chances in Turin on Tuesday.
“We have to play to our limits and give 100%,” Kovac emphasized in a press conference. “We want to show that we have the quality to get a result here.”
Despite their struggles in Italy, Dortmund have a reputation for strong starts in the Champions League. They have won their opening game in three of their last four campaigns, showcasing their ability to perform when it matters most.
With no major injury concerns, Dortmund are looking to carry their domestic form into Europe. Kovac believes they have the depth and balance needed to compete at the highest level.
Midfielder Marcel Sabitzer echoed his coach’s sentiments, expressing the team’s belief in their abilities and setting their sights on success in the tournament.
As Dortmund prepare to take on Juventus, all eyes will be on whether they can deliver a performance that matches their ambitions on the grand stage of the Champions League.
