Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac says his side have to show ‘a completely different face’ in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Barcelona
Former Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski scored twice as the German side were thrashed 4-0 by Barcelona last week in the first leg.
But Dortmund have made a habit of saving their best form for the Champions League, reaching the final last year, and will hope for a legendary comeback at home.
Barcelona are yet to face defeat in 2025 but Kovac wants his side to fight.
He said: “We know the situation. We want to show a completely different face tomorrow than in the first leg and win the game.
⬛️ For the badge. 🟨 pic.twitter.com/S0wMX1Bbif
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) April 14, 2025
“There are always miracles, but we also know that Barcelona haven’t lost a competitive game yet this year.
“We have to be there from the first minute tomorrow and get the fans on our side. We’ll only get the necessary wind from them, the willingness to run, performance and passion.”
Dortmund, who have also struggled in the Bundesliga and are eighth in the standings on 42 points, could be without captain Emre Can for the return leg in Germany against treble-chasing Barca.
“We rested Emre in training today. He’s had muscular problems in his adductor area for weeks now and he’s always gritting his teeth,” Kovac said.
“You have to emphasise that. It’s possible he won’t play tomorrow, we’ll have to see.”
Kovac also hailed midfielder Felix Nmecha, who returned to the team earlier this month after a lengthy absence due to a knee injury, adding: “Felix has developed very well as a player and as a person.
“He can do everything on the ball, has great dynamics and is a complete player. After his long injury, he’s still a little behind in terms of fitness.”
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