Bayern München were victorious over Borussia Dortmund and one player in particular was at the forefront in particular: Former BVB man Mario Götze. The Germany international spoke about the hard-fought three points, possible competitors in the title race and the Champions League.
Question: Mario, what did you make of the game against Borussia Dortmund?
Mario Götze: We had some difficulties in the first half in terms of keeping the ball and winning challenges. We did that much, much better in the second half, and had a lot more room too. We should really have scored before the break, then it would have looked a lot different.
Question: Do you enjoy a game like that just as much on the pitch as you do as a spectator?
Götze: Of course. It was an intense match. Small things can make all the difference against Dortmund; they’re always good, intriguing and tough games where any side can win. We had that little bit of luck on our side in the final moments when the referee blew for a penalty.
Question: Your manager Pep Guardiola said that Dortmund will always be your biggest rivals. Did the game confirm that?
Götze: The difference between the two sides in terms of points is fairly big. But sometimes there are those spells where you don’t get the luck that you need. I’m convinced that Dortmund will bounce back and pick up points. I’m happy that we won here today.
Question: Was the win down to sheer desire?
Bayern München were victorious over Borussia Dortmund and one player in particular was at the forefront in particular: Former BVB man Mario Götze. The Germany international spoke about the hard-fought three points, possible competitors in the title race and the Champions League.
Question: Mario, what did you make of the game against Borussia Dortmund?
Mario Götze: We had some difficulties in the first half in terms of keeping the ball and winning challenges. We did that much, much better in the second half, and had a lot more room too. We should really have scored before the break, then it would have looked a lot different.
Question: Do you enjoy a game like that just as much on the pitch as you do as a spectator?
Götze: Of course. It was an intense match. Small things can make all the difference against Dortmund; they’re always good, intriguing and tough games where any side can win. We had that little bit of luck on our side in the final moments when the referee blew for a penalty.
Question: Your manager Pep Guardiola said that Dortmund will always be your biggest rivals. Did the game confirm that?
Götze: The difference between the two sides in terms of points is fairly big. But sometimes there are those spells where you don’t get the luck that you need. I’m convinced that Dortmund will bounce back and pick up points. I’m happy that we won here today.
Question: Was the win down to sheer desire?
Götze: Yes, that too. We pressed them really well in the second half, put a lot of pressure on them and really wanted to turn things around. The equaliser did us some good.
Question: Dortmund have slumped a bit this season in terms of the title race, but who do you see as your biggest rivals?
Götze: We’re focusing on ourselves. It’s important that we picked up points and want to stay at the top for as long as possible.
Question: You now face AS Roma again in the Champions League on Wednesday and could secure a spot in the last 16 and even first place in the group with a win. Will it be a tricky game after the 7-1 win away in Italy?
Götze: It will be a tough game. Our goal is clear – to get three points. I think that Roma will line up differently and have learnt from the other game. We shouldn’t get ahead of ourselves. It’ll be an interesting match; it’s the Champions League where anything can happen. Therefore it will do us good to just focus on the next game.
