“The bottom line is that we progressed” – Kovač reflects on Dortmund’s second-leg draw

Niko Kovač spoke to the media after his BVB side ensured passage to the last-16 of the UEFA Champions League against Sporting CP.

In the wake of Dortmund’s Champions League play-off second-leg draw against Sporting CP, head coach Niko Kovač shared his thoughts on the game.

“We controlled the game and didn’t concede anything over 90 minutes. The bottom line is that we’ve progressed. The team played with great concentration today.

“We didn’t concede anything, were very good defensively and were able to create momentum going forward in the second half.

“At the moment, we lack the gallantry to capitalise on the chances we have in the box. You have to give the lads a good talking to,” the 53-year-old explained.

The BVB boss went on to talk about the criticism his players have faced in recent days, how he tries to raise standards and motivate his squad.

“We all know that they can play football. We also know that the head plays a big role. If you don’t get the results and finish eleventh in the Bundesliga, there’s always going to be criticism. The lads can’t just shake that off.

“But we try to show them the things they do really well. I’m very confident that the lads will gain even more self-confidence in the next few games through good results.

“I believe in it and as a coach I have to believe in it too. That’s why we’ll go through everything that lies ahead together,” Kovač said. 

Die Schwarzgelben now away Friday’s draw to decide whether they will face French club LOSC Lille or English opposition in the form of Aston Villa.