Unconventional Viewing: Dortmund Bench Watches Game from Locker Room

Dortmund’s Unique Approach

Borussia Dortmund took an unconventional approach during their second match in the Club World Cup against South African side Mamelodi Sundowns. As temperatures soared to approximately 31 degrees Celsius in Cincinnati, the club made the decision for their substitutes to watch the first half of the game from the comfort of the locker room. This decision marked a first for the team, as they sought to protect their players from the extreme heat. “We wanted to avoid the sweltering sun in the stadium. This situation has never occurred before, but it’s completely logical in this heat,” Dortmund announced on their Twitter account.

Weather Concerns and Player Management

In the lead-up to the match, head coach Nico Kovac expressed concerns over the adverse weather conditions affecting player performance. “In a tournament like this, clubs that come from warmer countries often have an advantage since they are more accustomed to these high temperatures,” he noted. Kovac emphasized that playing in a stadium can feel like it’s five degrees hotter due to the conditions on the field. To maintain their players’ stamina, he planned to utilize those who could effectively manage the heat without exhausting themselves.

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