Niko Kovač’s reign as Borussia Dortmund manager got off to a disappointing start with a 2-1 home defeat to Stuttgart. Despite a late rally, Dortmund were unable to overcome a two-goal deficit, leaving Kovač with plenty to ponder after his first match in charge.
Stuttgart took the lead early in the second half through an unfortunate own goal from Waldemar Anton. Jeff Chabot then doubled their advantage, capitalizing on poor defending from Dortmund to volley home.
Dortmund responded with a late surge, with Jamie Gittens coming close to scoring before Julian Brandt pulled a goal back. However, their efforts were not enough to salvage a result, and they were further hampered by Julian Ryerson’s late red card.
This defeat highlights the challenge facing Kovač as he takes over a Dortmund side struggling for consistency. They have now lost five of their last eight matches and sit 11th in the Bundesliga table.
Stuttgart’s victory sees them climb into the top four of the Bundesliga. They have been in impressive form in recent weeks and will be hoping to maintain their challenge for a Champions League spot.
Kovac will be looking for a response from his Dortmund players when they face Sporting in the Champions League play-off round next week. They will then return to Bundesliga action with a trip to Borussia Mönchengladbach.
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