Kovač: “Bayern’s brilliance decided the Klassiker, but we gave everything”

Niko Kovač praised his Borussia Dortmund players’ intensity and commitment after a thrilling 2–3 defeat to FC Bayern Munich in the Klassiker, while acknowledging that Joshua Kimmich’s class ultimately decided the game.

Niko Kovač reflected on Borussia Dortmund’s narrow 2–3 defeat to Bayern Munich, calling it a match that showcased both sides’ intensity and praising his squad’s effort despite the disappointing result.

“We showed a good reaction after the Atalanta game. We gave a lot and it was a great back-and-forth. It was advertising for the Bundesliga – unfortunately with the bad ending for us,” Kovač said.

The coach also shared concern over Emre Can’s injury. “The doctor doesn’t have a good feeling about Emre Can – it could be the cruciate ligament. He also heard something during the incident. It doesn’t look good, without saying too much.”

Kovač highlighted the decisive influence of Bayern’s star players. “In the end, the world-class quality of Joshua Kimmich was simply decisive. How he assisted the first goal and scored the third – that was the key today.”

While acknowledging the defensive shortcomings, Kovač was pleased with Dortmund’s attacking output. “We wanted a good result going into the break, and we achieved that. In the second half, it became a real shootout. Bayern this season is offensively absolute world-class – almost everyone concedes multiple goals against them. Defensively we could have done better, offensively I was satisfied with my team. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough.”

Looking ahead, Kovač stressed focus on recovery and progress. “We now have more free days and want to continue developing. For us, it’s about staying close to Bayern in the table in a composed manner.”

He also praised the match officials, a rarity in modern football commentary. “I think the referee did a good job today. Referees can be praised too, not always criticized. I told him that as well.”

Despite the loss, Kovac underlined that Dortmund’s mentality and willingness to fight until the final whistle were clear positives, even in a match ultimately decided by Bayern’s offensive brilliance.