Dortmund can catch Bayern, says Gotze

Mario Gotze is confident Borussia Dortmund can still defend their league crown, despite trailing Bayern Munich by 11 points.

Dortmund have displayed impressive form in the Champions League, qualifying to the round of 16 as leaders of a group consisting of Real Madrid, Manchester City and Ajax, but have fallen off the pace in the Bundesliga.

On Saturday they face Bayern Munich in a bid to reduce their deficit, and Gotze believes the Bavarians could be knocked off the top.

“We are still early in the season. A lot of things can still happen and the Bundesliga title is not decided yet,” the 20-year-old told reporters.

Gotze then had words of praise for Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery, who he believes could play a decisive role.

“[Ribery] is a good player and it wouldn’t be bad for us if he slowed down,” he said.

“He has shown recently how important he is for Bayern and I am looking forward to facing him.”