Vincent Kompany: 'Der Klassiker is a title in itself' as Bayern chase decisive Dortmund win

With FC Bayern Munich eight points clear at the top of the Bundesliga, victory would extend that advantage to 11 and move the defending champions closer to another league crown. But Kompany insists the occasion carries its own weight beyond the table.

"I said from the start that it is always a title in its own right," he said. "The truth is, these games are so important that they deserve their own little title."

Bayern are overwhelming favourites to lift the Meisterschale, yet Kompany stressed that the result will not alter his team's mindset.

"The result will not change our mentality. We're on a good path and want to fight to keep it that way," he explained. "It's important for the Bundesliga that this is a big event. The teams shouldn't have fear."

Dortmund's midweek Champions League exit could influence the contest, but Kompany is wary of speculation.

"That can do anything to BVB, you don't know," he said. "It was a setback, but they could have progressed. Mentally, that can work both ways."

Instead, the Bayern coach is concentrating on preparation.

"What we have under control is how we come into the game. We had a very good week - there was healthy poison in training, which I love."

Kompany also views the atmosphere at Signal Iduna Park as motivation rather than pressure.

"These are the games you play football for. It's Dortmund against Bayern Munich," he said. "In my head, it's all about winning. The opportunity to win there - that's the coolest thing for me."

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