Der Klassiker: Dortmund Rely on Bundesliga's Best Defense Against Bayern

Borussia Dortmund will play their most decisive match of the 2025/26 Bundesliga season so far when they travel to Bayern Munich's home ground for the first Der Klassiker next Saturday. But unlike previous editions that were often marked by open duels, this time Die Schwarzgelben arrive with a more pragmatic identity: the best defense in the competition.

That record is no empty claim. After being held in two consecutive matches, Niko Kovač's side returned to winning ways on matchday seven by beating Eintracht Frankfurt 1-0. The result marked Dortmund's fifth clean sheet in the league this season, while confirming that their goal has been breached only four times — the lowest figure among all Bundesliga contestants.

For Kovač, that record is valuable capital against Bayern, who are known to be aggressive at home. The Allianz Arena has historically been one of the most intimidating venues in Europe, and Dortmund have often struggled to maintain their playing structure when facing the hosts' high pressure. Solidarity at the back is therefore a prerequisite if BVB want to return home with points.

Interestingly, Dortmund have not abandoned their attacking instinct. The win over Frankfurt showed that this team can manage a match efficiently without having to dominate possession. Such an approach is often considered better suited when facing Bayern, who usually control more of the ball and leave space behind.

On the other hand, Bayern remain favorites based on squad quality and the home factor. However, Dortmund's defensive record gives a new dimension to the Der Klassiker narrative: not merely a duel between two big teams, but a test of the effectiveness of Kovač's tactics in dampening the hosts' attacking machine. If Dortmund can keep a clean sheet in Munich, it will be a strong signal that they are serious contenders at the top.

A solid defense does not mean playing defensively. Dortmund need to maintain discipline without losing the courage to attack when chances arise.

For Indonesian football fans, Der Klassiker is always a must-watch, especially for Bayern and Dortmund supporters spread across various cities. The match is also often a proving ground for players idolized in the country, as well as a tactical barometer often adopted at the local level. It is not an exaggeration that many young Indonesian coaches use the meeting between the two teams as study material.

The question is, will Dortmund stay faithful to their pragmatic approach, or will they try to seize the initiative from the start? The answer will be visible at the Allianz Arena, and the result could determine the direction of Die Schwarzgelben's season.