MUNICH — Modern football’s tendency towards simplification often fails to capture the complexities of reality, which is somewhat understandable. However, as a commentator covering the German scene, it’s important to resist the urge to reduce Bayern Munich vs. Borussia Dortmund into a simplistic narrative that marketing might suggest for this fixture, known as der Klassiker.
This match does not conform to a straightforward “clash of the titans” storyline; it requires nuance and context to grasp its true significance.
Certainly, it is the most recognized Bundesliga matchup that captures global attention, featuring two of the most popular clubs in the Bundesrepublik. Their encounters can be exhilarating, as seen last season with two thrilling draws, and they highlight the ongoing quest to determine Germany’s top team.
However, this is not the ultimate rivalry in German football, akin to that of Real Madrid and Barcelona, Celtic vs. Rangers, or Galatasaray against Fenerbahce. Bayern fans do not dwell on schadenfreude regarding BVB, nor do the supporters of schwarzgelb obsess over the Rekordmeister.
Some might argue that labeling it a rivalry is overstating it; however, it qualifies as a Spitzenduell (duel of top teams).
The fixture rose to prominence in the 1990s as Bayern faced increasing competition from Dortmund under Ottmar Hitzfeld, who would later join Bayern. At that time, Bayern was not as dominant, and players didn’t regard Bayern-BVB as particularly unique compared to other matches.
Perhaps the peak of this rivalry occurred during Jürgen Klopp’s tenure at BVB, when Dortmund clinched the Meisterschale in 2011 and 2012, amplifying the competition and setting the stage for the all-German Champions League final at Wembley in 2013, which Bayern won in a close contest.
Since then, BVB has struggled to claim the Bundesliga title, with their most painful near-miss in 2023, when they squandered a promising position on the final day, allowing Bayern to triumph.
In the last two seasons, der Klassiker has been overshadowed by Bayern’s encounters with 2024 champions Bayer Leverkusen, despite still being the most popular fixture in the Oberhaus.
This season, Bayern, under Vincent Kompany, seem to have found a potent formula, raising the question of whether anyone can challenge them in the Bundesliga.
Early evidence from the first six matchdays suggests that BVB could be the only side capable of halting Bayern’s momentum. While they may not match Bayern’s overall quality, Dortmund’s current tenacity and defensive resilience under Niko Kovac suggest they could potentially end Bayern’s winning streak if everything aligns.
There’s a common misconception among casual fans that Bayern always prevails over BVB, especially in Munich. In reality, Dortmund’s last two visits resulted in a 2-0 victory and a well-earned 2-2 draw, with the latter coming under pressure as they fought for a Champions League spot.
Bayern will certainly enter Saturday’s match as favorites, especially considering they’ve started the season with 10 consecutive competitive wins and scored 38 goals.
Kompany has addressed the loose ends from his first season, making it difficult to spot any weaknesses in the team. Even with Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies, and Hiroki Ito currently sidelined, and Thomas Müller no longer on the roster, Bayern looks significantly improved both on and off the field since Kompany’s arrival.
It’s easy to highlight Harry Kane, whose extraordinary 11 goals in just six Bundesliga matches put him on track to break Robert Lewandowski‘s record of 41 goals in a season. I’ve previously discussed Kane’s growth in versatility, notably his ability to deliver long-range passes and adapt to play more effectively in the role Musiala typically occupies.
In addition, it’s worth noting Bayern’s enhanced team statistics in running and sprinting disciplines. It’s uncommon for the team with the highest possession percentage to lead in total distance covered, a category typically dominated by teams that excel in gegen den Ball (against the ball).
Dortmund tends to play with a conservative line, and their Dreierkette (three-man defense) is likely to mirror these tactics at the Allianz Arena, aiming to capitalize on Umschaltmomente (transitional moments). This approach plays to the strengths of rapid players like Karim Adeyemi and natural forward Serhou Guirassy.
Ultimately, this matchup does not require a flashy introduction. It speaks for itself: it’s about a perfect Bayern taking on an unbeaten Dortmund, first versus second, in what promises to be an enthralling football showdown.
And the German language has the perfect term for this moment: richtungsweisend (pointing the way ahead).