Waldemar Anton slams Dortmund’s lack of intensity after Bodø/Glimt defeat

Borussia Dortmund defender Waldemar Anton refused to make excuses for his side’s disappointing performance following Wednesday’s 1-0 defeat to Bodø/Glimt.

Borussia Dortmund defender Waldemar Anton has criticised his side’s lack of intensity following their 1-0 defeat to Bodø/Glimt in the Champions League. 

The Bundesliga side struggled to impose themselves on the contest throughout the evening in Norway, with Fredrik Sjovold’s second-half goal ultimately proving decisive. 

Speaking to DAZN after the match, centre-back Anton was asked whether the small Aspmyra Stadion and artificial pitch had contributed to Dortmund’s struggles. 

“No, those are not excuses,” he insisted. “We knew beforehand what to expect. We’re not using that as an excuse. 

“We simply didn’t play well in the first half, both with and without the ball. We were always a step too late. 

“We weren’t aggressive enough, and we lacked intensity. What we showed was clearly not enough. That was the problem, especially in the first half.”

BVB did improve after falling behind, and did create opportunities, but were ultimately unable to find an equaliser. 

Anton acknowledged that, but also stressed the importance of taking opportunities in the Champions League. 

“After we conceded, we finally started playing football. We came out reasonably well in the second half and were better in the challenges, particularly after conceding,” explained the 30-year-old. 

“In the end, we had opportunities to make it 1-1, and we have to be clinical in front of goal, especially away from home in the Champions League.”

In terms of where the problems stemmed from, Anton said: “We tried to do things a little differently, but unfortunately it didn’t work. 

“Everyone has to question themselves about what the problem was. I think we lacked intensity in many areas today, and without that intensity, you simply cannot win a game.”

Looking ahead to Union Berlin on Saturday, the defender added that: “It’s important we put this behind us as quickly as possible. Of course, we’ll analyse it. 

“We know the games are coming thick and fast, and we have to be ready again on Saturday. It’s extremely bitter at the moment because, looking at the positives, we really should have made it 1-1 at the end. 

“It’s frustrating when you have such clear chances and don’t take them,” Anton concluded.