Borussia Dortmund somehow managed to remain in the title race by securing a late 1-0 win over Fortuna Dusseldorf. The Black and Yellows were pegged back by their opposition’s organised defence throughout the game. And although they were unlucky to be disallowed a goal from Raphael Guerreiro, a late header from Erling Haaland secured all three points in the final minute of the added time.
Borussia Dortmund Player Ratings Vs Fortuna Dusseldorf
Roman Burki 6/10
Roman Burki got really lucky to get away with a clean sheet, especially as Steven Skrzybski hit the bar twice. Although the Swiss would have had it covered, it was not the most comfortable afternoon for him.
Lukasz Piszczek 7/10
Lukasz Piszczek’s lack of speed made Dortmund much more exposed from deep long balls, especially during the final phase of the game. However, the Pole was overall decent in his defensive game.
Mats Hummels 7.5/10
Returning to the starting lineup after suspension, Mats Hummels marshalled the backline with his impeccable leadership and brilliant game-reading quality. He made numerous interceptions, cutting out passing lanes from Fortuna.
Manuel Akanji 6/10
It was an uncomfortable game for Manuel Akanji, who was hurried and hassled. As a result, the Swiss international failed to freely distribution possession from the back. Also made a couple of rash passes.
Achraf Hakimi 6/10
Not the best of performances from Achraf Hakimi, who was given no freedom at all, thanks to an organised pressing from Fortuna. The Morrocan international looked frustrated at the end. Also missed a golden opportunity to score in the first half.
Emre Can 7.5/10
Emre Can continued his sensational run of form with yet another inspired performance. The ex-Liverpool man looked quite convincing on the ball and made some excellent tackles, helping Dortmund still dominate the middle third of the pitch.
Axel Witsel 7/10
Axel Witsel complemented the efforts of Can in central midfield. His composing presence in the centre of the park allowed Dortmund to be much more resilient in the build-up phase.
Raphael Guerreiro 7.5/10
Raphael Guerreiro was perhaps the best performing Dortmund player in the creative side of the game this afternoon. The Portuguese international had difficulties creating space and also scored a stunning goal, which was wrongfully disallowed by the VAR.
Jadon Sancho 7/10
A mixed performance from Jadon Sancho. The winger was by far the most effective and hard-working player in the first-half, showcasing immense pace and trickery. But, he was almost invisible after the restart.
Julian Brandt 6.5/10
It was tough game for Julian Brandt, who was once again deployed in the number nine slot. He lacked the freedom the manipulate the final third with his smart passing. Looked much more comfortable when shifted into a central midfield role in the second half but it was too late.
Thorgan Hazard 6.5/10
Thorgan Hazard showcased brilliant pace and work-ethic, at times. But, the Belgian couldn’t make a telling difference to the game.
SUBSTITUTES
Erling Haaland 7/10
Came on for Witsel just after the hour mark but struggled to impose his presence on the pitch. However, Haaland, the type of goal poacher that he is, took the use of his late opportunity to score an excellent headed goal in the last minute, effectively helping Dortmund seal all three points.
Giovanni Reyna 6/10
Replaced Hazard in the final phase of the game but didn’t influence the game as much.
