Borussia Dortmund began their 2026/27 campaign with a 1-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the DFL-Supercup at Signal Iduna Park on Saturday. Head coach Niko Kovac acknowledged that defensive lapses and the timing of Bayern’s second goal proved decisive in the season-opening loss.
The annual showpiece, which pits the Bundesliga champions against the DFB-Pokal holders, served as the first competitive fixture for both sides. Speaking after the match, Kovac described the contest as an “intense” affair with opportunities at both ends. He felt his side started brightly but allowed Bayern to gain momentum through unforced errors. “We started the game well, but then we allowed Bayern to grow into the game with some mistakes, and we had to defend a lot,” he said.
The Croatia tactician singled out the concession of a second goal during first-half added time as particularly damaging to his team’s prospects. “The second goal just before the break, in added time, was frustrating. If you go into half-time 1-0 down, you have a chance to come back in our stadium,” Kovac explained. The remark underlined how the late first-half blow altered the tactical dynamic of the fixture.
Improved second-half display
Despite trailing by two goals at the interval, Kovac found encouragement in Dortmund’s response after the break. The coach noted a marked improvement in aggression and attacking intent as his players chased the deficit against the German champions on home soil.
“The second half was really good. We took more risks, had more of the ball, looked more dangerous and were more aggressive,” Kovac remarked. This shift in approach demonstrated the character within the squad, even though they could not overturn the first-half deficit.
Early setback for new campaign
The Supercup defeat represents an immediate setback for Kovac as he attempts to mount a serious challenge to Bayern’s domestic supremacy this term. While the result denies Dortmund an early trophy, the manner of their second-half recovery may offer tactical clues for the forthcoming Bundesliga fixtures.