In a surprising show of sportsmanship, Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac has publicly thrown his support behind the club's fiercest rivals. Ahead of a crucial weekend for both teams, Kovac expressed his hope that FC Schalke 04 can secure promotion back to the Bundesliga.

"When it comes to the derby between Dortmund and Schalke, that's what gets everyone here fired up, and I'd love to experience it myself," Kovac told reporters on Friday. He added, "Schalke is on the right track. Big clubs with a rich tradition are always welcome. That's why I'm keeping my fingers crossed."

This sentiment highlights the unique intensity of the Revierderby, one of German football's most passionate and historic rivalries. For the fixture to return, Schalke must complete their promotion bid. They currently sit atop the 2. Bundesliga table with just five matches remaining, aiming for a top-flight return after their 2023 relegation.

While Kovac looks to the future of the rivalry, his immediate focus is on the present. His Dortmund side, sitting second in the Bundesliga, faces a must-win scenario against Hoffenheim on Saturday. A victory is essential to delay Bayern Munich's potential title celebration this weekend.

Dortmund will have to navigate this high-stakes match without several key players. Forward Karim Adeyemi is out with muscular issues, while midfielders Emre Can (cruciate ligament tear) and Felix Nmecha (knee injury) are also sidelined, testing the squad's depth during the tense season finale.