Kobel urges Dortmund to move on quickly ahead of Bayern clash

by sportswriter Zhao Jiantong

BERLIN, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel has urged his side to quickly put midweek disappointment behind them as they prepare for a decisive Bundesliga showdown against Bayern Munich this weekend.

Dortmund suffered a 4-1 defeat to Atalanta on Wednesday in the second leg of their midweek Champions League knockout play-off, losing 4-3 on aggregate and failing to advance to the round of 16.

Speaking at Dortmund's training ground, Kobel acknowledged the emotional toll of the recent setback but stressed the importance of refocusing.

"Games like this are part of football," the Switzerland international said. "As professionals, we have to focus on what we can control - training, recovery and preparing for the next match."

Despite a late return and limited rest, Kobel said the team responded positively in training. "Given the circumstances, it was a good session. The focus was on getting the body and mind ready for an important game."

The clash between Dortmund and Bayern, known as Der Klassiker, will be played on February 28 at Dortmund's home ground, Signal Iduna Park.

Bayern currently tops the standings with 60 points, holding an eight-point lead over second-placed Dortmund on 52. While Bayern enjoyed a record-breaking first half of the season, Dortmund's consistency and recent improvement have kept the club in the title conversation.

Kobel attributed Dortmund's defensive improvement over the past year to collective responsibility rather than individual brilliance.

"Defending is everyone's job - even the attackers," he said. "When you're compact and work together as a unit, it becomes much harder to score against us."

While Dortmund has occasionally faced criticism for a perceived lack of attacking creativity, Kobel believes recent performances show progress. "We've created more chances in recent weeks and become more dangerous, especially from set pieces and crosses," he said.

With Bayern boasting one of Europe's most potent attacks, Kobel played down the idea of altering his preparation. "As a goalkeeper, you can't focus on one specific threat. You have to be ready for everything and concentrate on what you can do."

Kobel also addressed the pressure that comes with playing for Borussia Dortmund, noting that criticism is inevitable without silverware. "If you don't win titles here, there will always be disappointment. That's part of the club and part of the game."

Looking beyond club football, the 27-year-old expressed optimism about Switzerland's prospects ahead of the World Cup, saying the national team has "grown together" and is eager to surpass previous tournament results.

And when asked to choose between winning a Champions League final by saving a last-minute penalty or lifting the World Cup with Switzerland, Kobel answered without hesitation: "World Cup." ■