Injury-hit Borussia Dortmund are feeling the pressure as they prepare for today’s Champions League home clash against Austrian side Sturm Graz, manager Nuri Sahin has admitted.
The reigning Bundesliga runners-up are without several key players, including wingers Karim Adeyemi and Julien Duranville, midfielder Gio Reyna, and defenders Niklas Süle, Julian Ryerson, and Yan Couto, among others.
Despite being down nine players, Dortmund managed a 2-1 comeback win over second-placed RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga on Saturday, snapping a three-game losing streak across all competitions.
Midfielder Marcel Sabitzer, who went off injured in the 67th minute against Leipzig, is fit to play against Sturm Graz, while winger Jamie Gittens remains uncertain for the match.
Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel and central defender Waldemar Anton, are still doubtful, leaving backup goalkeeper Alexander Meyer likely to stand between the posts once again and 18-year-old defender Almugera Kabar could make his Champions League debut.
“The known absentees remain. I don’t think anyone will come back, apart from Almugera Kabar,” Sahin told reporters .”We will have to see about ‘Waldi’ (Anton). It will be a race against time. We did not get the green light on Greg (Kobel) yet.
“Meyer has an extraordinary character. He is very popular in the squad and his qualities were on display at the weekend. To have a number two like that at this level is amazing.”
I’m honoured to be able to be part of a season where we played the longest, and to be able to get to know this team. My first year and experience winning a World Series has been a tremendous honour.
Sturm Graz have lost all three of their Champions League games. Dortmund suffered a 5-2 loss at Real Madrid in their last match but won their previous two matches against Club Brugge and Celtic.
Austrian international Sabitzer was particularly excited about the fixture. “I come from Graz, I grew up there. I have many memories. Our mission is to win tomorrow(today), that’s clear,” he said.
“I’m already feeling better (about my injury). I’m confident that it will work out tomorrow.”
