"In good shape": Piszczek backs Dortmund to upset Bayern | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund hopes to end their negative streak in the Klassiker against FC Bayern. BVB icon Lukasz Piszczek explains why he believes in a home victory—and at the same time looks back on some painful encounters.

Ahead of the Bundesliga top match between Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern Munich, Lukasz Piszczek looks at his former club with confidence. The long-time BVB professional, who managed to celebrate ten victories against the record champions during his active career, believes the Black and Yellows are capable of pulling off a surprise on Saturday evening.

“I believe that the negative run against Bayern can end on Saturday. Dortmund is in good shape,” the 40-year-old explained in an interview with Ruhr Nachrichten. In fact, BVB has been waiting eight years for a home win in the Klassiker, but at least the current season’s record at home gives reason for hope: Dortmund remains unbeaten at home in the Bundesliga, having won nine out of eleven matches.

Piszczek is particularly impressed by the defensive stability. “I rate the current season so far, with already 52 points and only 22 goals conceded, as absolutely positive,” emphasized the former right-back. Even though he still sees Munich as favorites in the title race, he believes Dortmund is well equipped for the direct duel.

Missed championship with BVB still pains Piszczek today

With regard to the title race, Piszczek remains realistic. “Whether Bayern become champions in the end depends only on Munich themselves,” he made clear. A collapse by the league leaders is theoretically possible, but the Pole doesn’t really believe it will happen.

Photo: IMAGO

In the run-up to the Klassiker, Piszczek also recalled defining encounters with Bayern—both good and bad. The missed championship in 2019 remains particularly painful for him. “After 42 points in the first half of the season, you have to become champions! Not winning the title was definitely the second worst experience of my career,” he said in retrospect. Only the defeat in the 2013 Champions League final was more devastating, which, he said, “hurt me the most.”

Despite these bitter memories, optimism prevails ahead of the next Klassiker. Piszczek is counting on the home strength and current form of his former club—and firmly believes that BVB can make a statement against Bayern of all teams.

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