Dortmund – Borussia Dortmund’s handball team faces a pivotal moment this Sunday as they strive for only the second departmental victory in the club’s history. The stakes are high as they navigate a crucial play-off battle, aiming to solidify their position in the competitive landscape of the EHF Champions League Women.
The pressure is mounting for BVB after a recent string of results. While the men’s football team consistently contends for Bundesliga titles and Champions League glory, the women’s handball squad is building its own legacy. This season, they’ve demonstrated resilience, particularly highlighted by a hard-fought victory against DVSC Schaeffler in a tense clash, marking their first EHF Champions League win since January 2022. That win, secured after a series of momentum shifts, showcased the team’s ability to perform under pressure.
However, the path hasn’t been without its challenges. A recent defeat against Metz Handball, despite a strong performance, served as a reminder of the high level of competition in the EHF Champions League Women. Gloria Bistrita pushed Metz hard, but ultimately succumbed to the French champions, who extended their flawless winning streak. This illustrates the demanding nature of the league and the need for consistent excellence.
Elsewhere in the league, Team Esbjerg also broke their winless streak, delivering a convincing performance against Storhamar Handball Elite. Ikast Håndbold maintained their perfect home record, holding off Krim Otp Group Mercator. These results underscore the overall competitiveness of the EHF Champions League Women, where any team can pose a threat on any given day.
The significance of Borussia Dortmund’s handball program extends beyond on-court success. As part of a larger, multi-sport club – Ballspielverein Borussia 09 e. V. Dortmund – the handball team contributes to the organization’s overall prominence in German sports. With approximately 218,000 members, Borussia Dortmund is the largest sports club by membership in Germany, and the fifth largest globally. The success of the handball team, enhances the club’s reputation and broadens its appeal.
The upcoming match presents a unique opportunity for BVB to build on their recent momentum and establish themselves as a serious contender in the EHF Champions League Women. The team will need to replicate the defensive solidity demonstrated in previous matches, particularly the performance that saw them limit opponents to 17 goals conceded, a figure that places them among the league’s best.
The return of key players will undoubtedly bolster Dortmund’s chances. Niklas Süle’s recovery from back problems is a significant boost, as is the availability of Daniel Svensson, who was previously suspended due to a red card. Salih Özcan, ineligible for Champions League matches, will also be available for selection. Even Marcel Sabitzer, recovering from calf problems, may feature on the bench, providing coach Niko Kovac with valuable tactical options.
Kovac emphasized the importance of not underestimating their opponents, drawing parallels to recent upsets in the Bundesliga where league leaders Bayern Munich were defeated by Augsburg and Leipzig drew with St. Pauli. He acknowledged that while the odds may appear favorable on paper, translating that into a positive result requires “a lot of energy and strength.”
The broader context of German handball is also noteworthy. The European Men’s Handball Championships 2026 are on the horizon, scheduled to begin with the Preliminary Round from January 15-21, followed by the Main Round (January 22-28), Semi-finals (January 30), and culminating in the Third-Place Match and Final on February 1. The performance of players in the EHF Champions League Women, including those at Borussia Dortmund, will likely influence national team selections for this prestigious tournament.
The club’s commitment to developing talent is evident in its extensive network of active teams, encompassing football (men’s, women’s, youth, and Canadian academy) and handball. This holistic approach to sports development ensures a continuous pipeline of players and fosters a strong sense of community within the club.
Sunday’s game is more than just a play-off battle; it’s a testament to the growing ambition of Borussia Dortmund’s handball program. A victory would not only propel them further in the EHF Champions League Women but also solidify their position as a rising force in European handball, adding another chapter to the storied history of one of Germany’s most iconic sports clubs.
The match promises to be a captivating contest, with both teams eager to assert their dominance. For Borussia Dortmund, it’s an opportunity to make history and demonstrate their potential on the European stage. For fans, it’s a chance to witness the evolution of a team on the cusp of greatness.
