As a lengthy three-week international break approaches, Borussia Dortmund is feeling extra motivated ahead of Saturday’s match against Stuttgart.
Head coach Niko Kovac emphasized that the team’s strong performances in the early Bundesliga season are as significant as their unbeaten record so far.
Dortmund is one of only two teams with a perfect nine points after three matches, alongside Freiburg, as they prepare to visit MHPArena.
This marks the first time in 11 years that Dortmund has kicked off a season with three straight wins, reminiscent of their winning streak in the 2015-16 season. Their five consecutive victories in the Bundesliga dating back to the previous season constitute the longest ongoing streak in the league.
“Not only do we have a solid point tally, but we’re also filled with confidence. The players are upbeat and focused,” Kovac stated at his pre-match press conference on Friday.
“We aim to finish strong, as it’s always more pleasant to return home with a victory. We’ve seen many positives; our defense is solid, and our transition play is improving.
“There are areas where we can enhance our possession play to be cleaner, but it’s still early in the season, and we need time.”
A three week international break and it’s only September. pic.twitter.com/dYxBG7ghET
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) September 18, 2026
Stuttgart, on the other hand, has only managed to secure three points amidst a challenging schedule, with their two losses occurring against Bayern Munich and Hoffenheim.
Kovac acknowledges Stuttgart’s quality, noting, “They’re a well-rounded team capable of creating opportunities and have several talented players.
“Though three points may seem low, remember they faced Bayern and Hoffenheim—this is not an easy start by any means. The home atmosphere will also make it tough for any opponent.”
Dortmund heads into the game with renewed confidence, as midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas has returned to training after experiencing circulatory issues during his Champions League debut against Villarreal.
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) September 17, 2026
Defenders Nico Schlotterbeck and Ramy Bensebaini also came through last week’s match against Paderborn unscathed after earlier injuries.
Kovac remarked on Karetsas, “He’s in great spirits, laughing, and enjoying training.”
Regarding Schlotterbeck and Bensebaini, he added, “They’ve handled everything well and are fit and ready for this weekend.”
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Stuttgart – Deniz Undav
Undav has netted six goals in six Bundesliga matches against Dortmund, the most he’s scored against any opponent, matching his record against Augsburg. Last season, he achieved one of his two Bundesliga hat-tricks in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Dortmund, with his other coming against RB Leipzig.
Borussia Dortmund – Fabio Silva
Silva has scored in both of his Bundesliga appearances in the 2026-27 season—his first instance of scoring in consecutive league matches. He’s already matched his total goals from last season, where he featured in 28 matches.
MATCH PREDICTION – DRAW
Dortmund triumphed over Stuttgart 2-0 in their last Bundesliga encounter in April 2026, with both goals scored in the dying minutes of the second half. Prior to that, Stuttgart had gone unbeaten in their first seven competitive matches against Dortmund under coach Hoeness.
That recent defeat remains Stuttgart’s only home Bundesliga loss in 2026.
In their 11 home Bundesliga matches in 2026, Stuttgart secured 26 points (W8 D2 L1), second only to Dortmund, who have 30.
However, Dortmund’s current form, with five consecutive competitive wins, brings them closer to matching their longest streak under Kovac, which was six victories in a row achieved in April and May 2025.
With Stuttgart’s impressive home record and Dortmund’s strong start to the season, the Opta supercomputer sees these teams as evenly matched.
OPTA WIN PROBABILITY
Stuttgart – 40.1%
Borussia Dortmund – 35.1%
Draw – 24.8%
Fan Take: This matchup is crucial not only for the standings but could also set a tone for the rest of the season. With both teams showing strong potential, this game could keep fans on the edge of their seats, highlighting the competitive nature of the Bundesliga.
Source: www.soccernews.com
