Kovac Prepares the Bundesliga's Classic Clash: Bayern-Dortmund's High-Stakes Showdown

Kovac on the Klassiker and the title race

Dortmund and Bayern Munich, two teams that began the season undefeated in the Bundesliga, meet in a top-of-the-table clash at the Allianz Arena this Saturday.

Ahead of this heavyweight, Dortmund's current coach and former Bayern boss Niko Kovac spoke about the Der Klassiker and compared the strength of his squad with the competition's stars as reported by the Bundesliga's official site.

Kovac opened by revisiting his earlier claim that Bayern are the favorites. He said Bayern are the record champions with a big trophy cabinet, but Dortmund also has top players; he believes both teams are high-quality, yet Bayern remain on another level at the moment.

He commented on Vincent Kompany's remark that the current level does not matter: every game has its own story, and it's important that both teams are fit and ready; Bayern sit on top for a reason; Kovac won't be fooled by such statements.

Regarding facing Dortmund's side, Kovac said there are no real differences in preparing for the clash; tension and anticipation are present regardless of color of their jersey; it's a top match, and players feel the weight.

On any moment of crossing the line in the Klassiker as a player, he says this match is special; both teams will try to turn it in their favor; with VAR it's hard to hide anything; everything is clear, which is good because we want to play football, not fight.

On the importance of the Kane versus Serhou dynamic, Kovac said both are great players and important to their clubs; Bayern currently lead, Dortmund tries to push their number nine forward; if he scores this year as last year, he will have a good season; we rely on him.

About Kane as Bayern's key player: he notes Kane scores goals and provides assists; there are other good players such as Gnabry or Sane; the team depends on a collective effort, including others like the rest of the squad on both sides.

Kovac mentions the defenders and the goalkeeper; every player must contribute; if you isolate the four attackers, you won't win; the team has grown together; technically strong and physically fit.

It starts at the front; players must understand the importance; four attackers alone won't suffice; the team must defend together as 11; with quality and physical strength; this is crucial at a high level.

Punchline time: if this game turns into a chess match, expect a lot of gambits—just with shin guards. Also, remember: the ball never lies, but VAR loves to quote it back at you with a stopwatch.