Borussia Dortmund’s Inconsistencies Loom Over Bochum Clash
After a resounding 3-0 victory in the first leg of their Champions League playoff against Sporting Lisbon, Borussia Dortmund are eager to avoid complacency as they prepare for their Bundesliga away match against relegation-threatened VfL Bochum.
While Dortmund’s bosses hailed the Lisbon triumph as an "outstanding statement," they are well aware of the team’s recent history of inconsistency. Sport director Sebastian Kehl cautioned, "It was a first step, but we know there are many more ahead of us."
Lars Ricken, Kehl’s superior, echoed the sentiment, warning the players against "falling into a state of complacency." Despite being on the cusp of reaching the next round in Europe, the team and management remain wary.
Dortmund’s volatility was evident in Lisbon itself. A lackluster and timid first half gave way to a transformative second period, raising questions about the impact of new coach Niko Kovac’s halftime address.
"I don’t know what he said in the dressing room," said Ricken. "But he must have found the right words."
Sporting, also struggling with their form, were overwhelmed by Dortmund’s newfound aggression and quick ball movement after the break. With their captain Morten Hjulmand suspended, the Portuguese side appeared vulnerable and unable to resist.
Serhou Guirassy, Pascal Groß, and Karim Adeyemi scored with relative ease, highlighting Sporting’s defensive frailties. Since the departure of successful coach Ruben Amorim to Manchester United in November, the Portuguese club has struggled to replicate their early-season form.
Dortmund will face a much more formidable opponent in Bochum, who are desperate to avoid relegation. "We’re going to Bochum now, and you know it’s not easy there," said Kovac after his first victory in his second game in charge of BVB.
While Kovac praised his team’s performance in Lisbon, he acknowledged the team’s deep-seated insecurities. His primary focus has been on boosting the players’ morale and confidence.
"In situations like these, you have to have a positive influence on the players," explained Kovac. "For now, that’s been successful."
Whether Dortmund’s renewed optimism will translate into lasting improvement remains to be seen. The Bochum match will provide a significant test of their resolve and consistency.
Additional Commentary on Dortmund’s Inconsistencies
Borussia Dortmund’s struggles with inconsistency are not a new phenomenon. Over the past few seasons, the team has oscillated between impressive performances and inexplicable setbacks.
Injuries, a lack of depth, and questionable tactical decisions have all contributed to Dortmund’s inconsistency. The arrival of Niko Kovac as coach was supposed to bring stability, but the team’s recent performances have been mixed.
The first half display against Sporting Lisbon was particularly concerning. Dortmund lacked creativity, movement, and urgency. They were second to every ball and appeared bereft of ideas.
However, the second half transformation was equally impressive. Kovac’s halftime intervention seemed to galvanize the team, and they suddenly played with purpose and determination. This suggests that the players are still capable of performing at a high level, but they need to find a way to maintain that level of intensity throughout the game.
It is worth noting that Sporting Lisbon were not at their best in Lisbon. The absence of Hjulmand weakened their midfield, and they were clearly rattled by Dortmund’s aggressive pressing after the break.
Nevertheless, Dortmund cannot afford to rely on the weaknesses of their opponents. They need to find a way to generate their own momentum and play with the same intensity and conviction regardless of the opposition.
The match against Bochum will be a good opportunity for Dortmund to prove that their Lisbon performance was not a one-off. Bochum are fighting for their lives in the Bundesliga, and they will provide a stern test of Dortmund’s resolve and character.
