After Champions League setback: Kahn issues clear demand to Dortmund | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund is searching for answers after their defeat at Tottenham. Oliver Kahn is calling for “absolute honesty” internally, while coach Niko Kovac expects a clear reaction ahead of the match against Union Berlin.

After the disappointing 2-0 defeat of Borussia Dortmund at Tottenham Hotspur, BVB is now focused on finding the causes. Of all teams, it was against a recently struggling Premier League club that Niko Kovac’s side put in a surprisingly lackluster performance—especially in the first half, where intensity and penetration were lacking.

For former Bayern executive Oliver Kahn, a possible starting point lies less in tactics and more in interpersonal matters. On the Sky talk show Triple – der Hagedorn-Fussballtalk, he brought up the need for internal clarity. “Maybe what’s needed is absolute honesty among each other, that people just honestly say to one another what the problem might be,” said Kahn. Especially in critical phases, open communication within the team can help break down barriers.

The 56-year-old suggested that tensions or unspoken conflicts can definitely hinder performance. According to Kahn, teams with a true winning mentality are characterized by addressing problems directly—even if it’s uncomfortable.

Niko Kovac Holds BVB Stars Accountable

Sportingly, the defeat has tangible consequences for Dortmund. In the Champions League standings, BVB has slipped out of the direct round of 16 spots and now depends on help from others. The final group match against Inter Milan therefore takes on added significance. Nevertheless, Kahn does not see the Black and Yellows as without a chance: “Borussia Dortmund has often shown what they are capable of.”

Before turning their attention back to the Champions League, however, the next test awaits in the Bundesliga. In the away match against Union Berlin, coach Niko Kovac is demanding a clear response. Even after the performance in London, the coach had strong words: “If you only win 36 percent of your duels, it will be difficult both in the Champions League and now against Union.”

Especially against the physically robust team from Köpenick, it will be crucial for BVB to bring more aggression and presence back onto the pitch—in order to quickly silence the recent criticism.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.