Kovac urges Dortmund to transfer Bundesliga surge into Champions League encounter

Niko Kovac, manager of Borussia Dortmund, has encouraged his players to mirror their impressive Bundesliga performances on the Champions League platform as they prepare to meet Atalanta in the playoff round on Tuesday.

A string of six straight wins has propelled Dortmund back into the race for the Bundesliga championship, although their recent domestic success contrasts sharply with their lacklustre showings in European competitions.

Having failed to secure victory in their previous three group stage fixtures, Dortmund concluded in 17th place, leaving them unseeded for the playoff draw as a consequence.

"Our aim is to harness the current Bundesliga impetus," Kovac stated during his Monday press briefing. "We intend to channel this energy alongside the support of our supporters."

To advance to the Champions League round of 16, Dortmund need to overcome Atalanta, the 2024 Europa League champions.

Dortmund will host the Italian outfit this week, followed by an away fixture in Italy on February 25.

"Progressing in the knockout phase boils down to reaching the subsequent stage," remarked the ex-Croatian midfielder.

"However, mere discussion will not suffice, we must put in the effort during the matches.

"This approach instils confidence and optimism for success across these two encounters with Atalanta."

Atalanta sit in sixth position in Serie A at present, showing improved domestic results since the new year began, despite their own subpar European performances.

"Atalanta possess a formidable squad that has developed steadily, they claimed the Europa League title two years back and remain competitive in Italy," Kovac noted.

"The matches will be fiercely contested. I view the odds as even at 50-50. With any luck, we will head to Italy with a favourable outcome."