Kovač sings praises of Anton and his “hard-working” BVB side

The BVB coach was delighted with his team’s shift in the first-leg of their UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off.

Speaking in the mixed zone after Borussia Dortmund’s 2-0 win over Atalanta this evening, Niko Kovač was more than happy with his team’s efforts.

“I’m very satisfied – we played good football, scored two goals and worked well in the second half. We were very hard-working on a few things.

“We pulled them off well tonight. Serhou Guirassy scored a goal and provided an assist, which is exactly what we need,” the BVB coach added.

Amid a spate of injuries in defence, Kovač went on to sing the praises of Waldemar Anton who was an example to his 18-year-old partner Luca Reggiani at the back.

“Waldi was absolutely in charge last season, whether playing centrally or on the right wing. He’s a leader and always holds his own. He was a huge help to Luca today, too.”

“Waldi is a rock. A role model and a fighter. On and off the pitch, that’s exactly how I see him,” explained the 54-year-old of the central defender.