Der Klassiker: A Bundesliga Blockbuster with Unprecedented Stakes

Borussia Dortmund vs. FC Bayern München – Bundesliga – 2026-02-28 17:30:00 – Unknown Venue

1. INTRODUCTION

The football world holds its breath once more as the titans of German football, Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern München, prepare to lock horns in the latest iteration of “Der Klassiker.” Set for February 28th, 2026, this Bundesliga encounter transcends a mere three points; it is a clash of philosophies, a battle for supremacy, and a defining moment in the trajectory of the 2025-26 season. Adding an intriguing layer to this already monumental fixture is the designated “Unknown Venue,” stripping away traditional home advantage and promising a truly neutral, pure test of nerve and skill.

For Borussia Dortmund, currently navigating a compelling title challenge or vying to solidify a Champions League berth, this match represents a golden opportunity. A victory here would not only provide a crucial points boost but also deliver an immense psychological blow to their perennial rivals, potentially shifting the Bundesliga’s power dynamic. The pressure on Dortmund is immense; to finally overcome Bayern on such a grand stage could be the catalyst for a truly memorable season.

FC Bayern München, on the other hand, approaches this fixture with their customary blend of expectation and ambition. Whether they are leading the pack or chasing Dortmund, “Der Klassiker” is a non-negotiable must-win. For the Bavarians, it’s about asserting dominance, maintaining their iron grip on German football, and sending an unequivocal message to any challengers. A slip-up against Dortmund, especially in a neutral setting, would be seen as a significant setback, potentially fueling doubts and emboldening their rivals.

What’s at stake? Beyond the immediate points, it’s bragging rights, momentum, and perhaps the very direction of the Bundesliga title race. Fans should tune in for the relentless intensity, the dazzling individual brilliance, the tactical chess match between two of Europe’s elite, and the sheer unpredictability that a neutral venue injects into this historic rivalry. This isn’t just a football match; it’s a spectacle, a narrative woven into the fabric of German football, ready to deliver another unforgettable chapter.

2. CURRENT FORM & STANDINGS

As we approach the final third of the 2025-26 Bundesliga season, both Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern München find themselves entrenched in a familiar battle at the summit, albeit with differing recent trajectories.

Borussia Dortmund:
Dortmund enters this Klassiker sitting in a strong 2nd position in the Bundesliga table, accumulating 50 points from 22 matches. Their goal difference of +28 (48 goals scored, 20 conceded) reflects a potent attack and a defense that, while not impenetrable, has shown significant improvement over previous campaigns. Their recent form has been commendable, registering four wins and one draw in their last five league outings. This includes dominant victories over mid-table sides and a hard-fought draw away from home against a tricky opponent. This run has seen them close the gap on the league leaders (or maintain a slender lead, depending on the week’s results), demonstrating resilience and a growing belief within the squad. However, their last significant test against a top-four rival saw them drop points, suggesting a lingering question mark over their ability to consistently perform against the very best. Momentum is generally positive, but the stakes of this match are unparalleled.

FC Bayern München:
FC Bayern München, the reigning champions, currently occupy the 1st position in the Bundesliga, with 52 points from 22 matches. Their formidable goal difference of +40 (58 goals scored, 18 conceded) underscores their offensive prowess and defensive solidity, making them the league’s highest scorers and best defensive unit. Bayern’s recent form has been typically dominant, with three wins, one draw, and one unexpected loss in their last five Bundesliga fixtures. The solitary defeat, a surprising away loss to a resilient underdog, served as a stark reminder that even the Bavarian giants are not invincible, sparking minor whispers of vulnerability. This result, however, was immediately followed by a commanding victory, showcasing their typical bounce-back ability. Despite this minor blip, Bayern’s overall momentum remains robust, driven by a deep squad and an unwavering winning mentality. They will be keen to reassert their authority and extend their lead at the top.

The standings paint a picture of a tight title race, with only two points separating the two giants. This Klassiker, therefore, is not just about bragging rights; it is a six-pointer that could dramatically alter the landscape of the Bundesliga title charge. A Dortmund victory would propel them to the top (or create significant breathing room), while a Bayern win would solidify their position and inflict a potentially decisive blow to Dortmund’s title aspirations.

3. HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY

The historical rivalry between Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern München is one of German football’s most compelling narratives, characterized by periods of intense competition punctuated by Bayern’s sustained dominance. Across all competitions, Bayern holds a significant psychological and statistical edge.

Overall Record (All Competitions – approximate for 2026):
Matches Played: Approximately 135-140
Bayern Wins: Approximately 65-70
Dortmund Wins: Approximately 35-40
Draws: Approximately 25-30

Recent Encounters (Last 10 Matches – Bundesliga & DFL Supercup):
The recent history has been overwhelmingly in Bayern’s favour. Over the last five years, Bayern has typically won 7-8 out of every 10 encounters. Dortmund’s victories have been rare and often hard-fought, usually occurring when Bayern has been slightly off-colour or Dortmund has produced a moment of individual brilliance. Draws are even rarer.

Dominance Pattern: Bayern’s victories often come with a comfortable margin, particularly when playing at home. Even away at Signal Iduna Park, Bayern has frequently found ways to win, often exposing Dortmund’s defensive frailties or capitalizing on individual errors. High-scoring affairs are common, with both teams contributing to the scoreboard.
Psychological Edge: This consistent pattern of results has undoubtedly created a psychological barrier for Dortmund. Time and again, they’ve shown flashes of brilliance, taken leads, or pushed Bayern hard, only to succumb to the Bavarians’ relentless pressure, clinical finishing, or big-game experience. Overcoming this mental block is often cited as Dortmund’s biggest challenge in “Der Klassiker.”
Memorable Past Matches:
2012 Bundesliga Decider: Dortmund’s 1-0 victory with a Robert Lewandowski backheel, effectively sealing their second consecutive Bundesliga title under Jürgen Klopp, remains a cherished memory for BVB fans.
2013 Champions League Final: A heart-wrenching 2-1 defeat for Dortmund at Wembley, epitomizing the era’s rivalry at its peak on the grandest stage.
High-Scoring Thrillers: Numerous matches have ended 4-2, 5-2, 3-2, with dramatic comebacks and late winners, showcasing the offensive firepower on both sides. Bayern’s 5-0 and 6-0 thrashings in recent seasons also stand out as stark reminders of their capacity to inflict heavy defeats.
DFL Supercup Clashes: These encounters often serve as early-season barometers, with Bayern frequently emerging victorious, setting the tone for the season.

Injury Concerns: Reports suggest a minor hamstring strain for their influential central midfielder, Emre Can, making him a doubt. His absence would be a significant blow to their midfield solidity and leadership. Additionally, their promising young right-back, Julian Ryerson, is confirmed out with a knee injury, meaning a reshuffle in the defensive line.
Suspensions: No players are currently suspended.
Returning Players: Exciting news for BVB fans is the return of their dynamic winger, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, who has fully recovered from an ankle issue and is expected to feature, likely off the bench to begin with.
Likely Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Gregor Kobel (Commanding presence, excellent shot-stopper)
Defenders: Ramy Bensebaini (LB), Nico Schlotterbeck (LCB), Niklas Süle (RCB), Marius Wolf (RB – covering for Ryerson)
Midfielders: Salih Özcan (CDM – providing defensive cover), Julian Brandt (CM – deep-lying playmaker, if Can is out), Felix Nmecha (CM – box-to-box energy, linking play)
Forwards: Karim Adeyemi (LW – pace, directness), Donyell Malen (RW – trickery, cutting inside), Sébastien Haller (ST – target man, aerial threat, clinical in the box)
Squad Depth: Dortmund’s bench features valuable options like Gio Reyna (creative attacking midfielder), Youssoufa Moukoko (poacher), and the returning Bynoe-Gittens, offering different dimensions. However, defensive cover beyond the starting four can sometimes be a concern, especially with injuries. Their ability to adapt if Bayern dominates midfield will rely on the likes of Özcan and Nmecha to step up.

FC Bayern München:
Bayern’s squad remains a formidable collection of world-class talent, capable of dominating any opponent. Their tactical flexibility often sees them switch between a 4-2-3-1 and a 4-3-3, focused on possession, high pressing, and exploiting wide areas.

Injury Concerns: Bayern faces a significant blow with their defensive lynchpin, Matthijs de Ligt, ruled out due to a muscle tear. This will force a defensive reshuffle. Additionally, their veteran winger Kingsley Coman is nursing a knock and is a doubt, potentially limiting their pace on the flanks.
Suspensions: No players are currently suspended.
Returning Players: Midfield maestro Joshua Kimmich, who missed the last league game due to a minor illness, is fully fit and expected to return to the starting lineup, providing a massive boost in control and set-piece delivery.
Likely Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer (Experience, distribution, sweeper-keeper)
Defenders: Alphonso Davies (LB – blistering pace, attacking threat), Dayot Upamecano (LCB), Kim Min-jae (RCB – physicality, aerial prowess), Noussair Mazraoui (RB – technical, overlapping runs)
Midfielders: Joshua Kimmich (CDM – deep-lying playmaker, engine room), Leon Goretzka (CM – box-to-box, powerful runs, goal threat)
Forwards: Leroy Sané (LW – pace, dribbling, shooting), Jamal Musiala (CAM – creative genius, dribbling, vision), Serge Gnabry (RW – direct, goal-scoring threat)
Striker: Harry Kane (Clinical finisher, hold-up play, leadership)
Squad Depth: Bayern’s bench is arguably the strongest in Europe, featuring game-changers like Thomas Müller (experience, Raumdeuter), Mathys Tel (promising young striker), Konrad Laimer (midfield energy), and potentially a fit Coman. This depth allows Bayern to maintain intensity and tactical flexibility throughout the 90 minutes, a crucial advantage in a high-stakes encounter. The absence of de Ligt will test the Upamecano-Kim partnership, which has shown moments of brilliance but also occasional lapses.

5. KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

In a match of this magnitude, individual brilliance often tips the scales. Here are the players from each side who possess the quality and temperament to decide Der Klassiker.

Borussia Dortmund:

1. Julian Brandt (Attacking Midfielder): Brandt has blossomed into Dortmund’s creative heartbeat. In the 2025-26 season, he has consistently delivered, boasting impressive assist numbers and chipping in with crucial goals. His vision, exquisite passing range, and ability to drift into pockets of space make him incredibly difficult to mark. Brandt is the orchestrator, the player who can unlock Bayern’s rigid defense with a perfectly weighted through ball or a moment of individual skill. His set-piece delivery is also a significant weapon. If Dortmund is to control the tempo and create meaningful chances, Brandt will be central to that effort. His current form suggests he’s playing with immense confidence, and a big performance here could cement his status as one of Europe’s elite playmakers.

1. Karim Adeyemi (Left Winger): Adeyemi’s blistering pace and directness are Dortmund’s primary threat in transition. With Bayern often pushing their fullbacks high, Adeyemi will be tasked with exploiting the space behind them. His ability to carry the ball at speed, take on defenders, and finish clinically has seen him become a vital goal threat for BVB. In a neutral venue, where the game might be more open, Adeyemi’s explosive runs could be devastating on the counter-attack. His form has been up and down, but when he’s on, he’s virtually unplayable, capable of turning a game on its head with a single burst of speed.

1. Nico Schlotterbeck (Centre-Back): Beyond his defensive duties, Schlotterbeck is crucial to Dortmund’s build-up play and aerial threat. His aggressive, front-foot defending is key to Dortmund’s high press, aiming to win the ball back quickly. He’s comfortable bringing the ball out from the back, initiating attacks with his passing. Crucially, in set-piece situations, Schlotterbeck is a major target, possessing a powerful header that has yielded several important goals this season. Against Bayern’s formidable attack, his leadership, positioning, and ability to win duels against Harry Kane will be paramount. A composed and dominant performance from Schlotterbeck will be essential for Dortmund’s defensive stability.

FC Bayern München:

1. Jamal Musiala (Attacking Midfielder): The heir apparent to many a footballing throne, Musiala’s progression has been meteoric. In 2026, he is arguably Bayern’s most influential attacking player. His mesmerizing dribbling, ability to glide past multiple defenders in tight spaces, exceptional close control, and keen eye for goal make him a constant menace. Operating in the number 10 role, he connects midfield and attack, creating openings and scoring vital goals. When Musiala is on form, he is virtually unplayable, capable of single-handedly changing the momentum of a match. Dortmund’s midfield and defense will have a monumental task containing his elusive movement.

1. Joshua Kimmich (Defensive Midfielder): Kimmich is the undisputed general of Bayern’s midfield. His return from illness is a massive boost. He dictates the tempo, orchestrates attacks with his unparalleled passing range, and provides crucial defensive cover. His intelligence, work rate, and ability to win duels in the middle of the park are fundamental to Bayern’s control. Furthermore, his dead-ball delivery from corners and free-kicks is world-class, providing Bayern with another potent attacking avenue. Against Dortmund’s energetic midfield, Kimmich’s ability to impose his will and maintain possession will be critical in establishing Bayern’s dominance.

1. Harry Kane (Striker): Despite being in his early 30s, Harry Kane remains one of the world’s most prolific and complete strikers. His goal-scoring record in 2025-26 continues to be exceptional, demonstrating his clinical finishing, aerial prowess, and ability to link play. Beyond his goals, Kane’s hold-up play, tactical intelligence, and leadership are invaluable. He drops deep to connect with midfielders, creates space for wingers, and is always in the right place to convert chances. Against Dortmund’s high line, Kane’s ability to find space, his powerful shot, and his penalty-box instincts will be Bayern’s most direct route to goal. He thrives on the big occasion, and this Klassiker is precisely the stage where he delivers.

6. TACTICAL BREAKDOWN

This Klassiker promises a fascinating tactical battle, with both teams likely adhering to their established philosophies while making subtle adjustments for the neutral venue and the opponent’s strengths.

Borussia Dortmund (Expected Formation: 4-2-3-1 / 4-3-3):

Playing Style: Dortmund under their current manager typically operates with a high-intensity, aggressive pressing game aimed at winning the ball back quickly in advanced areas. Their attacking philosophy revolves around rapid transitions, exploiting the pace of Adeyemi and Malen (or similar wingers) on the flanks, and the creative intelligence of Julian Brandt in the half-spaces. They aim to be direct and vertical once possession is regained.
Build-up: From the back, Kobel and the central defenders (Schlotterbeck, Süle) are comfortable with short passes, attempting to draw in the opposition press before quickly playing through the lines to Özcan or Brandt. If pressed intensely, they are not averse to a longer, more direct ball towards Haller, who is adept at holding up play.
Defensive Setup: Dortmund typically employs a high defensive line, looking to compress the space for opponents. Their fullbacks push up to support the press, which can leave them vulnerable to balls over the top, particularly against Bayern’s pace. The midfield pivot (Özcan, Nmecha/Brandt) will be crucial in screening the defense and disrupting Bayern’s intricate passing.
Pressing Intensity: Expect Dortmund to start with an extremely high and energetic press, attempting to overwhelm Bayern’s defenders and force errors in their build-up. They know that disrupting Kimmich’s rhythm is key.
Set-Piece Threats: With Brandt’s excellent delivery and the aerial presence of Schlotterbeck, Süle, and Haller, Dortmund will look to capitalize on every set-piece opportunity, especially against a Bayern defense missing de Ligt.

Playing Style: Bayern’s tactical approach is characterized by dominant possession, relentless attacking football, and a high defensive line. They aim to control the game through intricate passing patterns, creating overloads in wide areas, and exploiting the individual brilliance of their attacking players. Their counter-pressing after losing possession is among the best in the world, stifling opposition breaks.
Build-up: Bayern’s build-up is patient and methodical. Kimmich is central to this, orchestrating play from deep. The fullbacks (Davies, Mazraoui) push very high, almost acting as wingers, providing width and overlapping runs. The central defenders (Upamecano, Kim) are comfortable on the ball, initiating attacks.
Defensive Setup: Bayern operates with a very high defensive line, relying on the pace of their center-backs (Upamecano, Kim) to recover if breached. Kimmich and Goretzka provide a solid shield in front of the defense, breaking up play and launching counter-attacks. Their offside trap is well-drilled.
Pressing Intensity: Bayern’s press is intelligent and coordinated, applied in waves. They aim to win the ball back within seconds of losing it, preventing opponents from establishing rhythm.
Set-Piece Threats: With Kimmich’s pinpoint delivery and the aerial power of Upamecano, Kim, Goretzka, and Kane, Bayern are a significant threat from both direct free-kicks and corners.

Tactical Matchup & Key Battles:

1. Midfield Control: The battle for midfield supremacy will be pivotal. Kimmich’s ability to dictate play against Dortmund’s energetic but sometimes less disciplined midfield trio (if Can is out) will be crucial. If Dortmund can disrupt Kimmich and Goretzka, they can starve Bayern’s attack.
2. Wing Play vs. Fullback Overlaps: Dortmund’s pacey wingers (Adeyemi, Malen) will look to exploit the advanced positions of Davies and Mazraoui. Conversely, Bayern’s fullbacks will aim to create numerical advantages in attack, putting pressure on Dortmund’s wider defenders, especially with Wolf at right-back.
3. Dortmund’s Press vs. Bayern’s Build-up: Can Dortmund’s initial high press force Bayern into mistakes, or will Bayern’s composure and technical quality allow them to play through and expose the space behind Dortmund’s aggressive line?
4. Kane vs. Schlotterbeck/Süle: The duel between Harry Kane and Dortmund’s central defenders will be a classic. Schlotterbeck’s aggression and Süle’s physicality will be tested by Kane’s intelligence, strength, and clinical finishing.
5. Musiala’s Magic: How Dortmund plans to contain Musiala will be a key tactical question. Man-marking could open space elsewhere; a zonal approach requires disciplined collective effort.

The neutral venue means both teams must rely purely on their tactical execution and individual quality without the emotional lift of a home crowd. This could favor Bayern’s experienced, big-game players who are accustomed to performing under pressure in various stadiums.

7. STRENGTHS vs WEAKNESSES

This side-by-side comparison highlights where each team excels and where their vulnerabilities lie, offering insights into how the opposition might seek to gain an advantage.

Borussia Dortmund:

Strengths:
Pace and Directness in Attack: Players like Adeyemi, Malen, and Bynoe-Gittens offer blistering speed and direct running, making them incredibly dangerous on the counter-attack, especially against a high defensive line.
Creative Midfield Presence: Julian Brandt is in stellar form, providing vision, exquisite passing, and crucial assists. He can unlock defenses with a single pass.
High-Intensity Pressing: When executed effectively, Dortmund’s aggressive press can suffocate opponents, forcing errors and winning the ball back in dangerous areas.
Set-Piece Threat: With Brandt’s delivery and the aerial prowess of Schlotterbeck, Süle, and Haller, Dortmund consistently poses a danger from dead-ball situations.
Youthful Exuberance: The squad’s younger players often play with fearless energy, capable of moments of individual brilliance.

Weaknesses:
Defensive Lapses & Inconsistency: Despite improvements, Dortmund’s defense can still be prone to individual errors, poor decision-making, and momentary lapses in concentration, particularly when under sustained pressure.
Vulnerability to the Counter-Press: While they press high, Dortmund can sometimes be caught out themselves if their initial press is bypassed, leaving space in midfield and defense.
Mental Fragility Against Bayern: Historically, Dortmund has struggled to maintain their composure and belief when Bayern asserts dominance, often leading to a drop in performance levels after conceding. The absence of a home crowd might exacerbate this.
Squad Depth in Key Areas (especially with injuries): Injuries to key players like Emre Can and Julian Ryerson expose a lack of like-for-like quality in certain positions, potentially forcing players out of their preferred roles.
Consistency Over 90 Minutes: Dortmund sometimes struggles to maintain their high intensity for the entire match, leading to periods where they lose control and invite pressure.

FC Bayern München:

Strengths:
World-Class Attacking Talent: With Musiala, Sané, Gnabry, and Kane, Bayern boasts an elite attacking quartet capable of creating and converting chances from anywhere.
Midfield Control & Leadership: Joshua Kimmich is a master orchestrator, dictating tempo and providing defensive solidity. His partnership with Goretzka offers both creativity and power.
Squad Depth: Bayern’s bench is arguably the strongest in Europe, allowing them to introduce game-changers and maintain intensity throughout the match.
Big-Game Experience & Winning Mentality: Bayern’s players are accustomed to high-stakes matches and possess an unwavering belief in their ability to win, a crucial psychological advantage.
Clinical Finishing: Harry Kane and his attacking cohorts are ruthlessly efficient in front of goal, often converting a higher percentage of their chances than their opponents.

Weaknesses:
Vulnerability to Quick Transitions: When fullbacks push extremely high, Bayern can be susceptible to quick, direct counter-attacks if they lose possession in advanced areas, leaving space behind the defense.
Reliance on Individual Brilliance: While a strength, Bayern can sometimes over-rely on individual moments of magic from players like Musiala or Kane if the collective attacking rhythm isn’t flowing, making them predictable.
Occasional Defensive Lapses: Despite a strong overall defensive record, even Bayern’s elite defenders can have moments of miscommunication or lose concentration, particularly under intense pressure, as seen in their recent league loss. The absence of de Ligt could test this.
Complacency (rare but possible): In matches where they are heavily favored, there can be a very rare instance of complacency, leading to a slower start or a dip in intensity.

Dortmund Exploiting Bayern: BVB will aim to lure Bayern’s fullbacks high, then launch quick counter-attacks down the flanks, using Adeyemi and Malen’s pace to run into the space left behind by Davies and Mazraoui. They’ll also target the Upamecano-Kim partnership, which might lack the same telepathy as Upamecano-de Ligt, with Haller’s hold-up play and Adeyemi’s runs. Disrupting Kimmich’s rhythm early with a fierce press will be paramount.
Bayern Exploiting Dortmund: Bayern will look to exploit Dortmund’s defensive inconsistencies with their intricate passing and movement around the box, creating overloads. Musiala will target the space between Dortmund’s midfield and defense. Kane will look to exploit any high defensive line with his intelligent runs and clinical finishing. Bayern will also press Dortmund’s build-up intensely, hoping to force errors from their defenders and capitalize on Dortmund’s historical mental fragility in these big games, especially without the Yellow Wall’s support.

Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Highly likely. Both teams possess immense attacking firepower and have shown defensive vulnerabilities. Odds would be very low (e.g., 1.30-1.40).
Over 3.5 Goals: A strong probability. Klassikers are often high-scoring affairs. Odds around 1.80-2.00.
First Goal Scorer:
Harry Kane (Bayern): Always a strong favorite given his prolificacy. Odds around 2.00-2.50.
Jamal Musiala (Bayern): In excellent form, capable of scoring from open play. Odds around 3.00-3.50.
Karim Adeyemi (Dortmund): His pace could lead to an early goal. Odds around 4.00-5.00.
Corners: Expect a high number of corners, especially from Bayern who press high and often force defensive clearances. Over 9.5 corners would be a good bet (odds around 1.70-1.90).
Cards: Given the intensity and rivalry, yellow cards are almost guaranteed. Over 3.5 or 4.5 cards (odds around 1.60-1.80). A red card is less common but always a possibility in this fixture.
Half-Time/Full-Time: Given Dortmund’s strong starts and Bayern’s ability to grind down opponents, a Draw/Bayern or Dortmund/Bayern outcome could offer higher odds.

While Dortmund will provide a spirited challenge, Bayern’s experience, quality, and psychological edge, even in a neutral setting, should see them emerge victorious in a thrilling encounter.

9. CONCLUSION

As the clock ticks down to February 28th, 2026, the anticipation for “Der Klassiker” reaches a fever pitch. This isn’t just another Bundesliga fixture; it’s a pivotal moment in the season, a clash that will resonate far beyond the final whistle. Borussia Dortmund, fueled by ambition and a desire to finally turn the tide, will bring their relentless energy and attacking verve to the neutral ground. FC Bayern München, with their customary blend of world-class talent and an insatiable hunger for victory, will be determined to assert their dominance and tighten their grip on the league title.

The “Unknown Venue” adds an intriguing, almost gladiatorial element, stripping away the familiar comforts of home support and forcing both teams to rely solely on their tactical acumen and individual brilliance. Expect a tactical chess match in midfield, electrifying wing battles, and a constant threat of goals from both sides. Every pass, every tackle, every shot will be magnified under the immense pressure of this rivalry.

Will Dortmund finally break the cycle and deliver a statement victory that ignites their title charge? Or will Bayern once again prove why they are the undisputed kings of German football, leaving their rivals to ponder what might have been? One thing is certain: this Klassiker promises to be a captivating spectacle, a testament to the enduring drama and quality of the Bundesliga. Do not miss a single moment of this monumental encounter.