Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac in contrast situations in Cincinnati to a sauna as his aspect secured a 4-3 win over Mamelodi Sundowns this afternoon.
The lunchtime kick-off in Ohio was accompanied by 30C warmth and draining humidity with Dortmund even permitting their substitutes to observe the primary half within the dressing room slightly than sit outdoors.
Our subs watched the primary half from contained in the locker room to keep away from the blazing solar at TQL Stadium – by no means seen that earlier than, however on this warmth, it completely is smart. 🥵 #FIFACWC pic.twitter.com/5GYtMER1fQ
— Borussia Dortmund (@BVB) June 21, 2025
Jobe Bellingham was among the many goalscorers because the Bundesliga aspect did nearly sufficient to win in opposition to plucky South African opposition, the previous Sunderland midfielder making it 3-1 on the stroke of half-time.
We received and we go on – Kovac
However Kovac was merely happy to have gotten by it along with his aspect now prime of Group F with 4 factors forward of tonight’s recreation between Fluminense and Ulsan.
He mentioned: “I stood on the touchline and sweated as if I had been popping out of the sauna. These are such onerous situations.
“We actually didn’t do the most effective recreation, however that wasn’t potential in the present day. We received and we go on.”
45′ JOOOOOOBE!@bvb double their lead simply earlier than the break!
Watch the @FIFACWC | June 14 – July 13 | Each Sport | Free | https://t.co/i0K4eUtwwb | #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld #MSUBVB pic.twitter.com/7amQ9ysWzY
— DAZN Soccer (@DAZNFootball) June 21, 2025
Bellingham stole the headlines – he was named the person of the match although he was largely quiet.
They had been actually good – Jobe reward for Mamelodi
And he was filled with reward for the Sundowns, who by no means gave up and induced a couple of late nerves by bringing the rating again to inside one when Lebo Mothiba scored within the ninetieth minute.
Bellingham mentioned: “They had been actually good, they need to be actually pleased with themselves.
“I’m glad we received, however there are nonetheless many issues to enhance, each for me personally and for the staff.”
Bellingham’s aim got here after a late run into the field, adopted by good management on the chest and a well-executed shot.
“I’ve practiced this so typically,” he added.
“Should you can contribute these form of objectives all through the season, you then’re heading in the right direction.”
Subsequent up for Dortmund is a conflict with Ulsan on Wednesday.
