Ansah and Baumgart reflect on narrow margins in defeat to Dortmund

Union Berlin coach Steffen Baumgart admitted his frustration at the 0-3 result against Dortmund, but was measured in his assessment, praising his squad’s mentality while conceding that Dortmund were deserved winners.

“I’m annoyed about the defeat, but there are games I’d be more upset about,” Baumgart said. “Dortmund can defend very well. Over 90 minutes, we didn’t do enough to put them in danger. They were the deserved winners today.”

Baumgart highlighted the intensity required when opponents visiting Union Berlin. “If you come here, you know as the opponent that you have to work really hard. My boys have a good mentality, but as Emre Can said, Dortmund played “men’s football” today and matched us physically, and in the decisive moments, they were simply better.”

The Union coach also paid tribute to Dortmund manager Niko Kovač, noting the immense pressures of coaching at the top level. “I have great respect for him,” Baumgart said. “I get to compete every week with my team, he every three days with his side. That’s a huge pressure, and I told him after the game that he’s doing a good job.”

Union Berlin striker Ilyas Ansah echoed his coach’s sentiments, highlighting the fine margins that made the difference. “I think we played a good game, but in the end, there are small things we need to do better. From the 20th minute onward, we were in the game and had our actions, but creating chances was difficult. That’s something we need to work on,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ansah struck an optimistic tone. “I think before the season, we would all have loved to be where we are now. We just have to keep going and focus on each new game.”