Niko Kovac: “Kobel kept us in the game”
| Kovac's BVB close to seal UCL place | Lars Baron/Getty Images |
For a while, Borussia Dortmund were set to miss out on Europe completely. However, with only a single game left in the season, the Black and Yellows can decide their fate of qualifying for the Champions League by themselves.
Before the game against Holstein Kiel next weekend, Niko Kovac’s side took a huge step with a comeback win over second-placed Bayer Leverkusen. Eintracht Frankfurt’s home draw against St. Pauli also helped last season’s finalists.
"We saw a super game in difficult conditions. Gregor (Kobel) kept us in the game in the first half. We did better in the second half,” said Kovac in an interview with DAZN. “The switch from 5-4-1 to 5-3-2 in the first half was already an improvement. And, when Sabitzer came on, we showed more composure and controlled the game.”
In addition to his match-winning goalkeeper, Kovac also applauded his team for their effective performance. “Top teams don't need many chances, and top players score goals when they get chances. I demand that we approach every game as if it’s a Champions League match."
