Kovač counts on home support in the DFB-Pokal, Guirassy issues apology | OneFootball

Will BVB manage a second success against Bayer Leverkusen? After their 2-1 victory in the Bundesliga, both clubs face each other again in the DFB-Pokal (December 2, 9 PM).

Niklas Süle (30) remains unavailable due to his toe injury. His head coach confirmed this on Monday at the press conference before the knockout duel against the Werkself. On a positive note, Niko Kovač (54) reports that Maximilian Beier has returned to training after his muscle stiffness. Salih Özcan (27), who hasn't played since September, also returns after an illness.

"We have a very broad, balanced squad," Kovač is pleased to say. However, there are "a few players who have played a lot recently," the Borussia coach reports. Therefore, he needs to "see how the guys react." It's clear: "We need the same energy tomorrow as in the last game."

One player who recently caught attention is Fábio Silva. Against Leverkusen, shortly after being substituted in, he delivered a perfectly timed cross to Karim Adeyemi (23), who finished with a textbook header to make it 2-0. However, the 23-year-old striker, who joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers for 22.5 million euros in the summer, has yet to start a match.

Trouble with Guirassy?

"I'm glad Fábio got minutes in the last two games," says Kovač. The Portuguese player needed "a bit more time." Silva is not only considered a replacement for Serhou Guirassy (29) in the center forward position but can also "operate between the lines," the football coach explains.

The BVB coach emphasizes the importance of not just playing "gung-ho football" but finding "a good balance." "We want to defend actively, press the opponent high," he announces for the knockout duel with Leverkusen. Kovač relies on the support of their own fans: "It's always easier when you play at home. It gives a fresh breeze."

There is no problem between him and his top striker, the 54-year-old emphasizes. After being substituted against Leverkusen, Guirassy refused to shake his hand. "I think we discussed it like adults right after the game," Kovač reports. He adds: "He came to me on his own and apologized."

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