Borussia Dortmund have found their rhythm again under Niko Kovač, combining tactical discipline with attacking flair in what looks to be the birth of a new, balanced era for the Black and Yellows. Following their impressive 4-2 triumph over FC Copenhagen in the UEFA Champions League, BVB have now secured seven points from three group-stage games — a strong statement of intent as they brace for back-to-back away tests against Premier League heavyweights Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.
In Copenhagen, Kovač’s tactical rotation paid off spectacularly. Making five changes from the previous Bundesliga outing, the head coach injected energy and precision into his lineup. One of the standout performances came from Jobe Bellingham, who played the full 90 minutes for the first time and provided two crucial assists. The young midfielder’s composure, vision, and work rate earned him glowing praise from Kovač, who said, “He deserves a special mention.”
The Croatian coach emphasized the importance of squad depth and rotation during this grueling run — seven matches in just three weeks, with six of them away from home. “It’s not just the matches, it’s also the travel, the hotels, the stress,” Kovač explained. “That’s why I stand by what I said — every single player in this squad can contribute. We saw that again tonight.”
BVB’s attacking efficiency has been equally impressive. The team has scored 12 goals from 32 shots on target in their first three European fixtures, averaging four per game. Fabio Silva, who netted his first Champions League goal for Dortmund, is emerging as a credible option to lead the line, offering flexibility up front ahead of Saturday’s Bundesliga home match against Köln.
Yet, what’s even more encouraging for Dortmund supporters is the newfound defensive solidity. Despite some high-scoring European contests, the team has conceded just six goals in seven Bundesliga matches — their best defensive record at this stage since 2017, trailing only Bayern Munich.
Sporting director Sebastian Kehl praised the collective progress, noting that BVB have become “more stable, more confident, and more adaptable.” With players stepping up across positions and the squad buying fully into Kovač’s rotation philosophy, Dortmund appear poised not only to compete on multiple fronts but to do so with refreshing balance and belief.
If they maintain this momentum, Borussia Dortmund could finally be on the path to achieving what’s long eluded them — consistency, both domestically and in Europe.
