Ahead of the Bundesliga classic between Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern, the starting position seems clearly divided. While the record champions arrive with a broad chest, BVB are staggering towards the negative trend of the season after the 2:2 in Leipzig and the bitter 1:4 at Atalanta Bergamo. For many, little currently speaks in favour of the Black & Yellows
Oliver Kahn also sees the roles clearly divided. „At the moment, everything speaks against Dortmund for the game against Bayern Munich,“ explained the former Bayern keeper on Sky. The Champions League exit in particular has left its mark. „That wasn’t just a defeat, it really hurt the way the team was eliminated. That sits deep.“
In addition, there was the physical strain of the game and the return journey. Bayern, on the other hand, were rested, confident and still represented in all competitions. „Dortmund, on the other hand, are in the process of completely ruining their season,“ said Kahn drastically
Outsider role as a mental weapon?
But it is precisely in this constellation that the former world-class goalkeeper recognizes a potential opportunity for BVB. When nobody believes in you anymore, it can unleash strength. „To a certain extent, that’s human,“ explained Kahn. For years, Bayern dominated the league and wore down the competition not only in sporting terms, but also mentally
„Imagine becoming champions eleven, twelve or thirteen times in a row. You flatten your rivals – mentally as well.“ In moments like these, the pure defiant reaction can become the decisive factor. According to Kahn, Dortmund need precisely this mentality to pose a threat to the league leaders and at least temporarily reduce the gap to five points
Bayern warned – but favorites
Despite this theoretical chance, the reality remains sober. Even a victory in the classic would not solve Dortmund’s structural problems. After the elimination from the top flight, a late comeback in the title race still seems unlikely
For FC Bayern, this means that the role of favourites is clear – but you should never underestimate a struggling opponent. The laws of the game apply particularly in the classic.
