Ilzer Aims for Safety Against Dortmund Amid Bundesliga Struggle

Dortmund, Germany — In a crucial matchup this Saturday at 3:30 p.m., Christian Ilzer, head coach of a struggling Bundesliga team, emphasized the need for focus as his squad vies to avoid relegation.

“We cannot rely on calculations,” Ilzer stated as his team prepares to battle Borussia Dortmund, a side still chasing international qualification. “The minimum goal of staying up is definitely not secure, and we want to sort this out as soon as possible.”

Currently sitting 15th in the standings with four games remaining, Ilzer’s team faces a challenging but somewhat favorable situation. He hopes to secure safety in honor of club benefactor Dietmar Hopp, who celebrates his 85th birthday on match day. “He has done remarkable things for this club and the region,” Ilzer said.

Despite acknowledging Dortmund as “a top team” with “brutal quality,” Ilzer remains optimistic. “We will be ready to challenge them. I believe we can take something from any match,” he remarked.

Missing from the lineup due to yellow card suspension are Tom Bischof and Valentin Gendrey, who is recovering from collarbone surgery. Meanwhile, Leo Östigard is set to return from suspension, and Adam Hlozek is nearing full fitness after an injury.

“We have a lot planned for the end of the season,” Ilzer concluded as his team prepares for playoffs against Dortmund, Wolfsburg, and FC Bayern.