Dortmund vs. Real: BVB faces the mammoth task in New York!

Dortmund vs. Real: BVB faces the mammoth task in New York!

On an exciting Saturday evening, Borussia Dortmund (BVB) will face Spanish football giants Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup. The game kicks off at 10 p.m. German time in MetLife Stadium, New York, and the anticipation is palpable. BVB is well positioned with a market value of 485 million euros compared to Real Madrid's 1.3 billion euros. Its coach Niko Kovač has an impressive success rate of 81.4% in knockout games - an ace that he wants to bring into play skillfully. As Bild reports, Kovač has celebrated numerous successes with various clubs and acquired the necessary tactical skills in the process.

This duel is an enormous challenge for BVB, not least because of their negative record against Real Madrid in recent matches - a defeat in the 2024 Champions League final is now one of the painful memories. Nevertheless, despite the outsider position, Kovač sees opportunities for his team. The crucial question will be whether Dortmund can bring their quality onto the pitch and take advantage of the “K.o.-Vac” factor. Player Adeyemi describes Kovač as calm and matter-of-fact, which could ensure a clear head at the crucial moment.

Lineup and failures

A remarkable stroke of fate hits Dortmund shortly before the game: Jobe Bellingham, talent and ex-BVB star Jude Bellingham's brother, is suspended because he received a second yellow card in the round of 16. This means Kovač will have to adjust his lineup. Possible replacements include Julian Brandt, Carney Chukwuemeka and Marcel Sabitzer. Brandt, the captain, has only had short appearances in the last few games due to a broken scaphoid, while Chukwuemeka was ill in the last game but could be fit for the game against Real. Sabitzer, who already replaced Bellingham in the round of 16, could prove to be a more stable option.

BVB's possible line-up could look like this: Kobel in goal, in front of him a three-man chain consisting of Anton, Bensebaini and Süle. Ryerson, Nmecha and Brandt or Sabitzer should be in midfield, while Adeyemi and Guirassy should provide a goal threat in the offensive. These formations are intended to guarantee a more stable defensive performance to withstand Real Madrid's attacks. A look at the Mannheim24 shows that the team should not be underestimated despite the failures.

The challenge against Real Madrid

Under coach Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid qualified confidently in the group stage with seven points and won the round of 16 against Juventus 1-0. BVB, on the other hand, also scored seven points and beat CF Monterrey 2-1. This means that both teams are on a similar level - the decision will be made in a direct duel. Despite the Madrilenians' strong form, Kovač sees optimism in his strategy, which he prepared through individual videos and a precise analysis of the player positions. This detailed preparation could prove to be the key to success.

A look at the Kicker promises exciting news about the Club World Cup, which is a highlight for all football fans. With a cool head and the right plan, Borussia Dortmund might be able to make a big splash. The anticipation and excitement are rising – be ready for an unforgettable duel!