Borussia Dortmund’s title hopes could be well and truly over, following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Bayern Munich in Der Klassiker this evening.
It was a well-matched contest between the two sides, who found it difficult to dominate each other throughout the entirety of the ninety minutes. However, a brilliantly executed chip from Joshua Kimmich late in the first-term turned out to be the only difference as the Bavarians come out with all three points in this crucial fixture.
Borussia Dortmund player ratings Vs Bayern Munich
Roman Burki 4/10
While the chip was undeniably good from Kimmich, questions should be asked about Roman Burki’s poor positioning as it lead to the only goal of the game against a Borussia Dortmund defence that otherwise performed well.
Lukasz Piszczek 8/10
There were concerns regarding Lukasz Piszczek’s lack of pace heading into the fixture. However, the Pole showed incredible fighting spirit and made some tremendous tackles throughout the game. A few erroneous touches were a minor blip in an otherwise excellent defensive display.
Mats Hummels 7.5/10
While Piszczek impressed with his defensive work-rate, it was Mats Hummels who provided the calmness in the Dortmund backline. He was always a reliable outlet when defending and was also quite useful going forward.
Manuel Akanji 7/10
Akanji performed well alongside the likes of Hummels and Piszczek. However, he might have gotten lucky not to be penalised for that late foul against Robert Lewandowski that could have resulted in a penalty.
Achraf Hakimi 6/10
Achraf Hakimi was one of the busiest players on the pitch during the first phase of the game. He wasn’t particularly sharp with his passing today and struggled to express himself due to the pacey presence of Serge Gnabry and Alphonso Davies.
Thomas Delaney 7.5/10
Thomas Delaney marshalled Dortmund’s second line of the press with some competent tackling. His robust nature of play helped the home side provide a strong challenge to Bayern. However, the Dane could have better with the clearance late in the first-half as it eventually led to the goal.
Mahmoud Dahoud 7/10
Contrary to the expectations, Mahmoud Dahoud impressed the onlookers with his neat footwork. His ability to carry the ball didn’t exactly come in handy, but the midfielder was always a lively presence in the middle third of the pitch.
Raphael Guerreiro 7.5/10
Raphael Guerreiro was consistent with his passing, barely putting a foot wrong in the build-up. But more importantly, the Portuguese tracked back well and provided ample defensive support, which is commendable for a player of his offensive tendencies.
Thorgan Hazard 6/10
Thorgan Hazard had a disappointing game, often running into isolated areas of the pitch. The Belgian clearly lacked space to work with this evening.
Erling Haaland 5/10
It was yet another quiet game for Erling Haaland, who struggled to impose his presence due to the lack of service from his teammates. He struggled even to get some touches on the ball before being subbed off in the second half.
Julian Brandt 5/10
Julian Brandt had a sloppy game by his lofty standards. The in-form German arguably missed the biggest opportunity for Dortmund, when he scuffed his cross in the first half. Jadon Sancho replaced him on the break.
SUBSTITUTES
Jadon Sancho 5/10
After missing out in the starting lineup due to lack of fitness, Sancho’s introduction in the second half was a clear tactical move by Lucien Favre. But it was one that didn’t exactly work out as the English international barely managed to make his presence felt in the proceedings, often struggling even to get hold of the ball.
Emre Can 6/10
Replaced Delaney after the half-time and assumed the Dane’s role in the double-pivot. The ex-Liverpool man showed excellent footwork but wasn’t as competent as Delaney when it came to challenges, thus allowing Bayern to dominate the midfield.
Giovanni Reyna 6/10
Came on during the final phase of the game, replacing Haaland. The young American found himself in a good position a couple of times but failed to make an impact.
Mario Gotze N/A
A late replacement for Piszczek as Favre opted for more offensive bodies. Mario Gotze most notably scuffed both of his attempted crosses, one of which turned out to be the very last action of the game.
