Gregor Kobel: Borussia Dortmund showed great commitment and heart in win over Newcastle

Gregor Kobel was delighted with the commitment and character Borussia Dortmund showed to see off the challenge of Newcastle United in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday.

Borussia Dortmund boosted their hopes of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League round of 16 on Wednesday evening by claiming a 1-0 win over Newcastle United. Felix Nmecha’s first-half effort gave the Black and Yellows their first Champions League win of the season. And Gregor Kobel was pleased with the way BVB played in the face of adversity.

"“After the first two games with one point, we knew we were in a bad situation,” Kobel said (via DAZN). “We knew from the beginning that this was a must-win game now.”“We played a good game away from home. It’s always difficult when it’s a loud stadium and there’s a lot of emotion. Newcastle pressed extremely aggressively and high up. They played with great intensity.”“We showed a lot of commitment and a lot of heart. We are very happy with the three points.”"

Under gloomy conditions at the St James’ Park, Borussia Dortmund put in a fighting display and got their UEFA Champions League campaign back on track. BVB’s defeat to PSG and draw against AC Milan meant that this was almost a must-win game for them. And they certainly treated it like one.

Gregor Kobel was one of Borussia Dortmund’s top performers over the course of the 90 minutes. The Swiss goalkeeper made a number of big saves in the second-half to help his side earn a vital clean sheet. He will hope to do the same in two weeks’ time when Newcastle make the trip to Dortmund for matchday four of the UEFA Champions League group stage.