Emre Can: We had to show a reaction after the defeat to Sporting CP

Emre Can has said that it was important for Borussia Dortmund to show a reaction after Wednesday’s defeat to Sporting CP, and they can now take some much needed momentum ahead of next weekend’s game against Bayern Munich. 

Borussia Dortmund returned to winning ways on Saturday as they came from behind to beat VfL Wolfsburg 3-1. Emre Can, Donyell Malen and Erling Haaland were all on target for the Black and Yellows, who kept pace with title rivals Bayern Munich ahead of next weekend’s Der Klassiker.

Emre Can spoke to Sky after the game and said that it was very important for Borussia Dortmund to get the three points against VfL Wolfsburg, especially after their disappointing elimination from the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday. The midfielder added that Dortmund battled as a team and got a well deserved win in the end.

"“The important thing was to win,” Can said. “We had to show a reaction after the game on Wednesday and we did that. The second half was very difficult. But the important thing was that we fought for each other and played as a team, and in the end we deserved to win.”"

Borussia Dortmund’s performance on Saturday was a stark contrast to what we saw in Lisbon on Wednesday. And Emre Can was a perfect example of this change. The German international was sent off after losing his cool against Sporting CP. But he delivered a much more composed performance on Saturday, while still showing great aggression and robustness.

Can also spoke about the importance of Erling Haaland, and said that having the Norwegian international back on the pitch gives the team a lot of confidence.

"“I think everyone knows about his quality. I think he helps us as a team a lot. I think the team has more confidence when he’s on the pitch. I hope he’s fully fit soon and he can help us.”"

Haaland made a surprise return from injury on Saturday, and he marked his comeback with a well taken goal. The striker will now be looking to make more progress next week so he can play from the start against Bayern Munich.