Key Takeaways:
- Borussia Dortmund will be without Niklas Süle and Marcel Sabitzer in training due to injury concerns
- Dortmund currently sit 16th in the provisional Champions League table and have yet to secure a knockout phase spot
- Last season’s runner-up Inter are one point ahead in 14th, with a playoff place secured but also a chance to reach the Round of 16 directly
Squad Fitness Concerns Heading into Decisive Encounter
Borussia Dortmund will be missing key players in their preparations for Wednesday evening’s pivotal Champions League fixture against Inter. Defender Niklas Süle remains sidelined by back issues, while midfielder Marcel Sabitzer is dealing with calf pain. Their absence from training could hinder Dortmund’s options as they look to progress in the competition.
Niko Kovac:
"Sabitzer and Süle won't be able to play. Otherwise, Salih isn't registered. Daniel is suspended. We'll be decimated tomorrow in terms of the number of players, but we'll have a good team."#BVB pic.twitter.com/rU2BzEU6vi
— BVB Newsblog (@bvbnewsblog) January 27, 2026
Qualification Scenario and Standings
Dortmund currently occupy 16th place in the provisional table and have not yet confirmed their spot in the knockout stage. In order to advance, they must finish among the top 24 teams. Nevertheless, there remains a mathematical possibility for the German side to secure direct qualification for the Round of 16 – but this would require a victory over Inter as well as favourable results in other matches.
| Team | Position | Points | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inter | 14th | 12 | Playoff secured; Round of 16 still possible |
| Borussia Dortmund | 16th | 11 | Knockout phase not yet secured |
Final Matchday Overview
All 18 fixtures in the last round of the Champions League’s main phase are scheduled to kick off simultaneously, adding further intrigue as teams vie for progression. With the margins razor thin, both Borussia Dortmund and Inter remain in contention for direct advancement to the Round of 16, setting the stage for a tense and decisive evening of European football.
