After edging past Werder Bremen last week, Borussia Dortmund will seek to continue their momentum when they face FSV Mainz at the Coface Arena on Sunday evening. The visitors currently sit fifth in the league table with 30 points while the home side are squabbling around the midtable places. A win for Thomas Tuchel’s team will take them to the third spot.
Goalkeeper: Its been quite a while since Roman Burki suffered the hand fracture injury against Bayern. Veteran goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller has been deputising in goal. The 36-year old will once again feature between the sticks for Dortmund.
Right Back: Lukasz Piszczek’s late winner gave Tuchel’s men all three points last week against Werder. The Polish international has been the league’s most prolific defender so far. His offensive contribution will give Dortmund an upper hand.
Centre Back(R): Sturdy Greek defender Sokratis has always been the main man in defence for Dortmund. One of the best defenders in the league, Sokratis’ presence will be vital, as Borussia Dortmund will seek for a shutout against Mainz.
Centre Back(L): Marc Bartra will partner Sokratis in the centre back position. The former Barcelona man has, so far, failed to establish himself in the Bundesliga. Against the 05-ers, he will once again have the chance to prove himself.
Left Back: Vice-captain Marcel Schmelzer has played a leading role in his team’s journey so far. Always vital in both defence and offence, Schmelle will be a key figure, especially against the likes of Jairo and Co.
Central Defensive Midfielder: Julian Weigl has always played a pivotal part in Thomas Tuchel’s system. His neat passing, good distribution and brilliant awareness often plays a key part in sustaining the opposition pressure.
Central Defensive Midfielder: Gonzalo Castro has been a subject of a bit of criticism of late. His frequent loss of concentration often ushers away the momentum in Dortmund offensive line. However, Tuchel has immense faith on the former Leverkusen midfielder. He will start alongside Weigl in the middle.
Right Midfielder: Ousmane Dembele has been turning on the gears lately. Especially in the last few matches, the French international has been very productive offensively. Finally, he seems to be getting used to the Bundesliga, and for sure, he is one of the prime assets in this young and talented Dortmund team.
Central Attacking Midfielder: Mario Gotze has found it difficult to find form and rhythm, even after coming back to Dortmund. He lacks the agility and dynamism to break in but his clever and neat touches have been a handful for the opposition.
Left Midfielder: Marco Reus’ comeback from injury has been a boon for Tuchel and his team. The German International has been one of Dortmund’s best players since his recovery from injury. He will be a vital player, as Dortmund look to swoop the opposition.
Striker: Gabon’s elimination from the African Cup of Nations meant star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is set to back at Dortmund. However, he will probably not feature against Mainz as Andre Schurrle is set to deputise for the Gabonese International.
