Borussia Dortmund’s emphatic victory over Benfica was completely overshadowed by Barcelona’s epic comeback at Nou Camp on Wednesday. The Black and Yellows were trailing the Portuguese outfit 1:0 in the first leg but successfully managed to keep their good form intact as they strolled through to an easy 4:0 win over the Aguias. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted a hat trick while Christian Pulisic found his first ever Champions League goal, which helped Dortmund complete their rout.
The BEST And Worst Borussia Dortmund Players Rated In Their Romp Over Benfica
Roman Burki (7.5/10): Kept his fourth consecutive clean sheets in all competitions, despite being a little uncertain at times. The Swiss International will look to keep up his good form in weekend’s clash against Hertha Berlin.
Lukasz Piszczek (8.5/10): Solid as ever, despite playing in his unfamiliar centre back position. The Polish defender contained the pressure of Benfica throughout the game, including a goal-saving block. His superb ball in resulted in the goal for Christian Pulisic.
Sokratis (8/10): Led the defence very well, as his physicality was too much for the likes of Mitroglou and company. The Greek centre back’s influence in the backline was unmatched, especially in set pieces. Had to go off after limping in the latter phases of the game.
Marc Bartra (8/10): Had an awesome night, just like his former club Barcelona. The 25-year-old was an imposing figure from the backline, often getting high to press the ball. His neat and tidy passes also helped Thomas Tuchel’s side in their buildup play.
Julian Weigl (7.5/10): Calm and composed as ever, Weigl was even more active throughout the game. The young German International kept things nice and tidy with his pinpoint passing.
Gonzalo Castro (8.5/10): Weigl’s positioning sense allowed Castro to roam forward in attacking areas. His efficient play led him to be one of the focal points in Dortmund’s attack. The former Leverkusen man completed the most number of passes on the night and was well complimented by his midfield partner Julian Weigl.
Erik Durm (8/10): After coming back into the side from a long-term injury, Durm seems to be in the form of his life! The 24-year-old was exceptional on the right flank, keeping Cervi at bay for the most period. His pinpoint cross helped Aubameyang putting in the third.
Marcel Schmelzer (8.5/10): Had little difficulties marking Nelson Semedo in the first off but grew stronger as the game progressed. His brilliant performance on the left flank was one of the reasons behind Dortmund’s dominance over Benfica. A perfectly weighted cross for Aubameyang was flawless.
Ousmane Dembele (7.5/10): A sizzling display from the Frenchman. The 19-year-old once again wreaked havoc in opposition defence. Surprisingly, though, Dembele managed only two completed dribbles against Benfica, way lower than his season average. But showcased an excellent performance nonetheless.
Christian Pulisic (9/10): The American wonder kid was excellent, to say the least. Starting just behind Aubameyang in the attack, the 18-year-old scored his first goal in the Champions League while capping off an incredible night with an assist late on.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (10/10): Without the doubt, the best player on the night, Aubameyang was able to put past his first leg slump to score a hattrick in the second. It was his first goal in the Champions League knockout stages. He will look to continue his fiery for the remainder of the season.
