Niko Kovac demands perfection as Dortmund target statement win over Bayern

Dortmund trail Bayern by eight points, meaning only victory at Signal Iduna Park will meaningfully close the gap in the title race.

"Bayern are a top team that will demand everything from us," Kovac said. "We have to play to our very best from the first to the last second. That's the ultimate in Europe."

Despite the deficit, Dortmund have lost just once in their last 31 Bundesliga matches, a run that has sustained belief within the squad.

"We need to be brave in possession and keep the ball for long spells," Kovac added. "But it also depends on the opponent, who will certainly want to impose their game on us. It will be very intense over 90 minutes."

Kovac confirmed Nico Schlotterbeck is fit to start, though Dortmund must reshuffle defensively due to suspension and injuries.

Reflecting on their recent Champions League exit, the coach made it clear attention has shifted firmly to Bayern.

"It was certainly a very intense match, mentally as well. But now we have to focus on tomorrow's game," he said.

"They will do everything they can to beat the German champions here in our stadium with our fans."