Few fixtures in world football carry the same magnitude and historical weight as Der Klassiker — Bayern Munich versus Borussia Dortmund. What started as a modest Bundesliga clash in the 1960s has evolved into the defining battle that almost always influences who will lift the Meisterschale. Every time these two German giants meet, the nation stops to watch.
The rivalry first caught the attention of football fans back in March 1966, when Dortmund led the league and hosted newly promoted Bayern Munich at the Stadion Rote Erde. That encounter marked the first time both clubs met as the top two in the Bundesliga standings. Bayern, powered by a youthful trio of Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller, and Sepp Maier, threatened to overtake Dortmund at the summit, but goals from Lothar Emmerich and Siggi Held ensured BVB’s victory. Despite their triumph, Dortmund would eventually miss out on the title to 1860 Munich — proof that even in its earliest form, Der Klassiker could be unpredictable.
Fast forward sixty years, and the landscape has transformed dramatically. The fixture has become the most anticipated event in German football, often pitting the reigning champions against their closest challengers. Statistically, Bayern and Dortmund have faced off as the Bundesliga’s top two on 19 occasions since that 1966 match. Remarkably, one of the two teams has always gone on to win the title in those seasons — a testament to how decisive this clash remains.
Saturday’s encounter at the Allianz Arena marks the first top-of-the-table Klassiker in two and a half years, with both Bayern and Dortmund unbeaten so far this season. For new Bayern boss Vincent Kompany, it’s a defining moment early in his tenure. “We’re at home in front of our fans, and we’re really up for this game,” said the Belgian coach, reflecting both excitement and respect for Dortmund’s challenge.
History, however, favors Bayern. They have won the last seven Klassikers where both teams were first and second in the table and boast 11 wins from 19 in such circumstances overall. For the record champions, victory over Dortmund has often signaled another title charge; for Dortmund, it’s the ultimate test of progress.
Whichever way it goes, this rivalry remains the pulse of German football — a battle for pride, power, and destiny.
