It was like a sauna – Borussia Dortmund boss Kovac highlights blistering heat in Cincinnati

Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac compared conditions in Cincinnati to a sauna as his side secured a 4-3 win over Mamelodi Sundowns this afternoon.

The lunchtime kick-off in Ohio was accompanied by 30C heat and draining humidity with Dortmund even allowing their substitutes to watch the first half in the dressing room rather than sit outside.

Our subs watched the first half from inside the locker room to avoid the blazing sun at TQL Stadium – never seen that before, but in this heat, it absolutely makes sense. 🥵 #FIFACWC pic.twitter.com/5GYtMER1fQ

— Borussia Dortmund (@BVB) June 21, 2025

Jobe Bellingham was among the goalscorers as the Bundesliga side did just about enough to win against plucky South African opposition, the former Sunderland midfielder making it 3-1 on the stroke of half-time.

We won and we go on – Kovac

But Kovac was simply pleased to have got through it with his side now top of Group F with four points ahead of tonight’s game between Fluminense and Ulsan.

He said: “I stood on the touchline and sweated as if I were coming out of the sauna. These are such hard conditions.
“We certainly didn’t do the best game, but that wasn’t possible today. We won and we go on.”

45′ JOOOOOOBE!@bvb double their lead just before the break!

Watch the @FIFACWC | June 14 – July 13 | Every Game | Free | https://t.co/i0K4eUtwwb | #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld #MSUBVB pic.twitter.com/7amQ9ysWzY

— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) June 21, 2025

Bellingham stole the headlines – he was named the man of the match even though he was largely quiet.

They were really good – Jobe praise for Mamelodi

And he was full of praise for the Sundowns, who never gave up and caused a few late nerves by bringing the score back to within one when Lebo Mothiba scored in the 90th minute.

Bellingham said: “They were really good, they should be really proud of themselves.

“I’m glad we won, but there are still many things to improve, both for me personally and for the team.”

Bellingham’s goal came after a late run into the box, followed by nice control on the chest and a well-executed shot.

“I have practiced this so often,” he added.

“If you can contribute these kind of goals throughout the season, then you’re on the right track.”

Next up for Dortmund is a clash with Ulsan on Wednesday.

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