Bundesliga’s FC Bayern Hosts Rival Dortmund in Anticipated Der Klassiker Match

MUNICH, Germany — FC Bayern München will face off against Borussia Dortmund in the much-anticipated Der Klassiker on Saturday, April 12, at Munich’s Allianz Arena. This matchup marks a pivotal moment in the Bundesliga season as Bayern seeks to solidify its position at the top of the league.

The match, set to kick off at 12:30 p.m. ET, will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN+, and ESPN Deportes. Pre-game coverage begins at 11:30 a.m. ET with the ESPN FC Pregame Special hosted by Kay Murray and Alejandro Moreno. Pitchside analysis will feature Bundesliga experts Archie Rhind-Tutt, Thomas Hitzlsperger, and Arne Friedrich.

This meeting is vital for both teams. Bayern, leading the Bundesliga, aims to maintain its stronghold against their fiercest rivals. Dortmund, despite a shaky start to the season, remains hopeful for a European spot, sitting eighth on the table but closing in on the Champions League qualification.

“From the coaching staff to the players, everyone has a responsibility. Together, we can win something in Munich,” said Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac in a pre-match press conference. He emphasized the importance of raising their performance level after their recent Champions League defeat to Barcelona.

Dortmund has regained momentum with back-to-back victories, moving just five points away from a Champions League berth. They are eager to prove their worth against the defending champions. Kovac stated, “We have to do more. Against top teams, you have to push yourself to the limit, which we didn’t do in Barcelona.”

The broadcast will also include a tactical feed on ESPN+ to enhance the viewing experience with aerial camera angles. Commentators Derek Rae and Stewart Robson will call the English feed, while Kenneth Garay and Barak Fever will cover the Spanish commentary.

Dortmund’s Pascal Groß is set to return to the midfield after serving a suspension, adding strength to their lineup. The match will be followed by the ESPN FC Postgame Special immediately after the final whistle.

In addition to the match, Bundesliga Americas will host a fan engagement event, “Bundesliga Haus,” in New York City on April 11-12, bringing the excitement of German soccer to local fans. This event will feature segments with Bundesliga legend Jürgen Klinsmann, further connecting fans with the league.

The rivalry between Bayern and Dortmund transcends on-field competition, often igniting passionate exchanges from fans across the globe. With the stakes high for both clubs, expect an electrifying atmosphere and a dramatic display of football.

For complete coverage of the Bundesliga and other soccer stories, visit ESPN.com/soccer or follow @ESPNFC on social media.