In-form Dortmund look to increase pressure on faltering Bayern in Bundesliga

Borussia Dortmund has significantly closed the gap to Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich, reducing the deficit from eleven points to just six over two matchdays. This shift has revived a title race that previously seemed decided after Bayern's historically strong start to the season.

Bayern's surprising home loss to Augsburg—their first league defeat in ten months—combined with a draw in Hamburg, created the opening for Dortmund to gain ground. Dortmund's own strong form, evidenced by their highest points total at this stage since the 2018-19 season, has been crucial.

The upcoming fixtures present a key opportunity for Dortmund to apply further pressure. A Dortmund win against Wolfsburg, followed by Bayern's match against in-form Hoffenheim, could see the gap shrink to three points temporarily. The direct clash between the two sides in late February is gaining major title significance.

Dortmund coach Niko Kovac emphasized focusing on his team's own performances rather than Bayern's results, stating they control their own fate. He acknowledged the six-point gap and the single remaining head-to-head match but affirmed his team will give their all.

Despite their strong position, Dortmund's season has featured narrow escapes, including a come-from-behind win over last-placed Heidenheim and a stoppage-time penalty victory against St. Pauli. Kovac noted his focus is on the team's performance, not just results, highlighting that Dortmund has dropped 10 points from winning positions in the final 20 minutes of matches this season.