Kovac: South America & African teams performed better in Club World Cup, which has to do with the very hot weather

June 21, Dortmund coach Niko Kovac said on Friday that the "Southern" team participating in the Club World Cup has an advantage over European clubs due to the current high temperatures in the United States.

In Kovac's view, there is another reason for the outstanding performance of South American and even African teams in the 2025 Club World Cup. The Dortmund coach pointed out that the current high temperatures in the United States give the "Southern" team an advantage against European teams.

South American team performed well in this tournament and remained unbeaten before the Boca Youth lost to Bayern 1-2 on Friday night. Brazil's Botafogo defeated Champions League champion Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 on Thursday, and Chelsea also lost 1-3 to another Brazilian team Flamengo. Dortmund, led by Kovac, was also in a sluggish state in his first match on Tuesday, and was tied 0-0 by Brazil's Fruminense.

Kovac said at a press conference: "In the current game, we see that the Southern Club has gained a huge advantage due to high temperature conditions."

Dortmund will face South Africa's Mamelodi Sunset team in Cincinnati next, and the temperature is expected to reach 32℃ when the kick-off is noon local time.

Players, coaches and even fans have complained about the high temperature and humid weather. Kovac explained: "The audience in the stands felt that the heat was unbearable. You can imagine the situation of the players. The shade is 32 degrees, and the actual temperature in the stadium in the sun should be 3 to 5 degrees higher."

"This is not an excuse but an objective fact. This situation is very difficult, especially for European players. Southern players are more adaptable to this temperature."

He did not forget to remind reporters: "When the time comes, remember to bring sunscreen, sun hats and a lot of drinking water. Those sitting on the bench will be exposed to the sun throughout the game."