Foot Africa
·18 February 2026
Kovac reacts to Guirassy’s emotional message after Dortmund win

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·18 February 2026

Dortmund coach responds after Atalanta victory

Kovac reacts to Guirassy’s emotional message after Dortmund win
Dortmund coach Niko Kovac reacted to Serhou Guirassy’s emotional message after his goal in 2-0 win over Atalanta.
Borussia Dortmund took a big step toward Champions League round of 16 after beating Atalanta 2-0 on Tuesday in first leg of the playoff tie.
The match played at Signal Iduna Park was marked by emotional scene involving Serhou Guirassy.
The striker opened the scoring in the third minute, then lifted his shirt to reveal message written in French. After the game, Guirassy explained that the words were dedicated to his brother whose daughter had passed away.
Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac admitted he was surprised by the gesture. He said he had no prior knowledge of the tragedy in Guirassy’s family but praised the striker for another strong performance.
Kovac highlighted that Guirassy not only scored the opening goal but also played a key role in the second which was finished by Maximilian Beier.
The coach added that Guirassy pressed well, held the ball and caused constant problems for Atalanta’s defense.
Guirassy had struggled for form over recent months but his displays have improved clearly. He has now scored five goals in his last three Bundesliga matches, in addition to his goal against Atalanta in Europe.
Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl also praised the striker. He said Guirassy worked hard, showed confidence and was very difficult to defend against.
Kehl added that Champions League seems to suit the forward and expressed satisfaction with his return to form at a key moment.









































