Kovac praises Betis: "They have earned the right to play in the Champions League"

Dortmund beat Betis 2-1 in Champions League, but Kovac praised the visitors' quality and said they deserve to be in Europe's elite competition.

Real Betis lost 2-1 away at Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League but impressed their hosts with their performance. Dortmund manager Niko Kovac was full of praise for the Spanish side after the match, saying "You can see that Betis deserves to play in the Champions League. Footballically they are really good, with many experienced players. It was a very hard-fought match, although the victory was deserved."

Kovac highlighted how difficult Betis made things for his team, particularly their compact defensive shape. Dortmund's sporting director Lars Ricken also commended the visitors, noting "I could see why Betis had won all their Champions League matches. They are a really strong opponent." Jobe Bellingham echoed the sentiment, acknowledging Betis's quality on the ball and their technically gifted players.

Betis, who were given a standing ovation by their travelling support of around 6,300 fans, remain on nine points from twelve and keep their hopes of advancing to the next phase intact.