Borussia Dortmund’s poor season continues as the Ruhr giants once again suffered a disappointing loss at the hands of bottom club Darmstadt this week. Coach Thomas Tuchel, however, will have a chance of putting past all the mediocrity behind, as Dortmund are all set to enter the Round of 16 stage in the Champions League this week.
Struggling in the league but dominating the European competitions has been a common scene for Borussia Dortmund in the past few years. This upcoming Tuesday, they will face Portuguese outfit Benfica in the away leg of their Round of 16 clash.
Predicted 4-1-4-1 Borussia Dortmund Lineup Vs Benfica
Goalkeeper: Swiss goalkeeper Roman Burki’s comeback from hand fracture has served as a boon for the Dortmund faithful. The charismatic goalkeeper, managed a lot of huge saves in his recent matches, despite not being able to keep a clean sheet. Burki will no doubt be a key player for Dortmund as they aim to keep an elusive clean sheet.
Right Back: Lukasz Piszczek is a very important part in Dortmund’s defense. The Polish right back has all the credentials for an attacking fullback while he can also defend as well. His experience will serve as a key for this young Dortmund side.
Center Back (R): On his day, Sokratis can easily be the best defender in the Bundesliga. However, he was subjected a lot of criticism when he failed to mark a Hertha attacker, in their midweek fixture in the DFB Pokal. An ever-present figure in the backline, Sokratis will lead his side defensively, in order to keep the Benfica attack at bay.
Center Back (L): Marc Bartra will partner alongside Sokratis in the center back positions. The former Barcelona defender had a great game against RB Leipzig, a week ago. He will be given the responsibility to act as the ball playing center back.
Left Back: Vice-captain Marcel Schmelzer is also a key figure for Borussia Dortmund. His experience and work ethic adds up to a valuable source of quality from the left flank. His slow nature of the play, however, might cause Dortmund some trouble against the fast attacking Benfica.
