Borussia Dortmund will be aiming to continue their winning momentum when they travel to San Siro to face Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday. The Black and Yellows have the upper hand, having already collected four points in two matches. That means securing all three points in this fixture could push them one step closer to sealing qualification to the knockout rounds.
However, things could be tricky against a revitalised Inter Milan side, managed by former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte. Meanwhile, here is how Lucien Favre’s men may line up this midweek.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Defence
Favre is likely to return to his customary 4-2-3-1 setup after deploying an experimental 4-4-2 against Borussia Monchengladbach. Achraf Hakimi was utilised as a winger but is expected to shift back to his preferred right-back role. That means Manuel Akanji could replace Julian Weigl, whose lack of physicality won’t be ideal in dealing with Romelu Lukaku.
Akanji will join Mats Hummels at the heart of Dortmund’s four-man backline. Nico Schulz, meanwhile, will occupy the left-back slot, ahead of Raphael Guerreiro. The German international has finally returned from his injury, which has served as a massive boost for Favre. As for the experienced Lukasz Piszczek, he might once again have to settle for a place on the bench.
Roman Burki is a guaranteed starter in goal, having performed supremely, in the narrow 1-0 win over Gladbach on the weekend. The Swiss will look to retain his third clean sheet in the Champions League this season.
Midfield
Dortmund’s midfield will remain unchanged with Axel Witsel operating in the double-pivot alongside Thomas Delaney. The Belgian international’s composure coupled with Delaney’s tenacity will be key, up against an Inter side, who are known for their aggressive style of play. It will be interesting to see how Witsel fares against Marcelo Brozovic at the base of the midfield.
Attack
Jadon Sancho is expected to return to the side after being suspended against Gladbach by Favre due to his late return to training. He was also fined handsomely. However, the English international will replace Hakimi in the right-wing slot this week. His pace and trickery on the flanks is Dortmund’s greatest weapon going forward.
With Favre likely to revert to a 4-2-3-1, Marco Reus will return to his customary number ten role. The German was voted as the player of the week in the Bundesliga for his performance against Gladbach. Guerreiro, meanwhile, could start on the left flank after being rested in the last game.
And finally, the Dortmund attack will be led by Brandt, who will be deputising for the injured Paco Alcacer. Thorgan Hazard is also an option.
