Kovac issues a caution to Dortmund, emphasizing that their upcoming encounter with Union Berlin won't be a walk in the park
Borussia Dortmund and Union Berlin are set to face each other in an exciting match this Sunday, as the two teams look to build on their respective starts to the 2025-26 season.
Dortmund have been unbeaten in nine Bundesliga games dating back to last season, and have won their last four home games, keeping clean sheets in the last two. However, they made a stuttering start to their current campaign, drawing 3-3 at St. Pauli after squandering a 3-1 lead.
Union Berlin, on the other hand, started their season with an impressive 2-1 home win over Stuttgart, with debutant Ilyas Ansah scoring twice. The young striker, who is the third-youngest player this century to score multiple times on his Bundesliga debut overall, will be a player to watch for Union Berlin.
Union remained undefeated at the start of a Bundesliga season for the fifth season in a row, and could start with two wins for only the second time, after the 2023-24 season. However, they have never won against Dortmund in their six previous away games in the Bundesliga.
Borussia Dortmund have never dropped points against Union Berlin in their six previous home games in the Bundesliga, and this trend could continue, with Opta giving Dortmund a win probability of 64.9%, compared to Union Berlin's 16.2% and a draw at 18.8%.
Dortmund have recently strengthened their squad, with the addition of Carney Chukwuemeka from Chelsea for €20m and Fabio Silva from Wolves for €25m. Silva, who had a successful loan spell with Las Palmas last term, believes he can contribute in all phases of the game. Another player to watch out for is Sebastien Haller, who is a returning player for Dortmund and could make an important contribution this season, as he has previously been successful at the club.
Borussia Dortmund's boss, Niko Kovac, expects a tough challenge in their home opener against Union Berlin. He expects Union Berlin to play a physical game and Dortmund will have to hold their own. With both teams looking to secure a win, this match promises to be an exciting one.
