The road to Madrid has begun with the league phase well under way - but which teams are currently looking in the best shape to go on and lift the European Cup?
Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac refused to make excuses after watching his rotated side suffer a disappointing European setback against Norwegian hosts Bodo/Glimt on Wednesday night. The Croatian tactician questioned his players' mentality and lacklustre display as the Bundesliga outfit slumped to a narrow loss at Aspmyra Stadion.
Borussia Dortmund have secured the long-term future of head coach Niko Kovac after the Croatian tactician signed a fresh contract until June 2029. The 54-year-old committed his future alongside assistants Robert Kovac and Filip Tapalovic on Tuesday, rewarding an impressive spell of stability and progress at Signal Iduna Park since taking charge.
Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac admitted his side only have themselves to blame after conceding twice in the final minutes against Werder Bremen. Strikes from Ludovit Reis and Niclas Fullkrug wiped out Dortmund's late 2-0 advantage.
Al Dhaid
