Following a series of inconsistent performances, Borussia Dortmund faces Sporting CP in the second leg of their Champions League knockout phase. After securing a 3-0 victory away from home last week, Dortmund now aims to maintain its momentum and secure a spot in the last 16. However, the team's domestic struggles have raised concerns among players and coaches alike. With both teams facing recent setbacks, the upcoming match promises to be a crucial test for each side's ambitions in Europe.

The Black and Yellows have experienced a rollercoaster of emotions this season. Despite an impressive start to their Champions League campaign, they suffered a disappointing 2-0 loss to VfL Bochum over the weekend. This defeat came just days after their commanding victory over Sporting CP, highlighting the team's inconsistency. Defender Nico Schlotterbeck has expressed his frustration, warning that the current trajectory could lead to a "horror season" if not addressed promptly. He emphasized the need for fundamental improvements on the field, particularly in physical duels and defensive solidity.

Coach Niko Kovac is under pressure to steady the ship following his first game in charge, which resulted in a 1-2 loss to Stuttgart. In response to the poor performance against Bochum, Kovac is expected to make tactical adjustments for the Sporting CP match. Players like Julian Ryerson and Salih Özcan are likely to feature in the starting lineup, replacing those who struggled in the previous game. Meanwhile, injuries continue to hamper the squad, with Felix Nmecha and Filippo Mané remaining sidelined for the foreseeable future.

Sporting CP, the reigning Portuguese champions, also arrives at this clash with its own set of challenges. The team has failed to win in its last three matches, most recently drawing 2-2 with Arouca. Key players such as Daniel Braganca, Geny Catamo, Hidemasa Morita, Pedro Goncalves, and Nuno Santos will miss the game due to various reasons. This combination of factors sets the stage for a high-stakes encounter where both teams will be eager to prove themselves.

As the final whistle approaches, Borussia Dortmund must focus on capitalizing on its Champions League form while addressing domestic issues. A strong showing against Sporting CP could provide the much-needed boost to morale and set the foundation for a more stable second half of the season. For Sporting CP, reversing their recent fortunes will be essential to maintaining their European ambitions and restoring confidence within the squad.