Niko Kovac (right) is under fire. © ANSA / ANNA SZILAGYI

Sharp criticism of BVB from Lehmann: “Anxious”

Former national football goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has harshly criticized Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac for his tactics in the 1:2 defeat in the top match in Munich.

19 October 2025

From: dpa

"Anyone who plays in such a formation doesn't really understand the complexity of football. It's no wonder, of course, that we don't manage to get much forward against Bayern Munich (...)," Lehmann told Bild/Welt TV.

"This back five is so common these days, I always think: Where did those who play like that learn football?" added Lehmann. Kovac also recognized this, said the goalkeeper, who once also played for BVB: "But I ask myself: Why doesn't he change it immediately? Football is entertainment. And there were 10.000 Borussia Dortmund fans there. And they were certainly anything but entertained."

The first half, in particular, was a tragedy. © ANSA / ANNA SZILAGYI

BVB had hardly any attacking moves, especially in the first half, which Lehmann attributes to tactics rather than a lack of courage: "Borussia Dortmund hasn't lost a game this season. Why should they be afraid? If, of course, I, as a coach, am afraid myself and choose such a fearful formation (...), what can I expect?" After their first defeat of the season, Dortmund are now seven points behind Bayern, who have won all of their games so far.