‘He really made an effort’ – Borussia Dortmund’s Niko Kovač lauds Carney Chukwuemeka

In the absence of Konstantinos Karetsas, Carney Chukwuemeka started for Borussia Dortmund’s 2-1 UEFA Champions League victory over Azerbaijan outfit Sabah FK.

It was the 23-year-old’s fifth appearance across all competitions this season, but first start for Die Schwarzgelben. Starting in a midfield alongside Joey Veerman and Felix Nmecha, the three interchanged positions, a constellation that head coach Niko Kovač praised.

Chukwuemeka created five chances, the most of any player. “He did really well,” explained Kovač, who also noted the Austrian’s defensive contribution. “I also thought he did well defensively. He really made an effort and sought out challenges.”

After dropping points against Werder Bremen (2-2 draw), Bodø/Glimt (1-0 defeat) and Union Berlin (0-0 draw), Dortmund marked a return to winning ways with a 2-1 victory over Sabah.

Serhou Guirassy proved the match-winner with a brace, taking his tally to four goals in three Champions League games in 2026/27.