Post-Match Report
BVB head into winter break on course for Champions League – Brandt: “A good, solid ending”
BVB started strongly, controlling the game with plenty of possession and taking an early lead through Brandt (10). Shortly before half-time, however, their superiority waned and the visitors grew into the game. It was only a late goal from substitute Maximilian Beier (90+7) in added time that dispelled any remaining doubts and brought noticeable relief after two recent draws against Bodø/Glimt (2-2) and Freiburg (1-1). “I’m very happy that we won. At the end of the day, it was deserved. We only allowed Gladbach one dangerous chance and missed one or two really good chances ourselves,” said coach Niko Kovac.
Unlike in the past three seasons, BVB are in a Champions League spot going into the winter break. 32 points after 15 games means an average of 2.13 points per game – the best since 2018/19. “Borussia Dortmund haven't reached for a few years. However, that doesn't mean we’re satisfied. It doesn't mean we can't do things better. But we have to put it into perspective,” commented Sebastian Kehl.
According to the sporting director, the hard-fought victory against Mönchengladbach revealed where the team still has room for improvement: “We need to learn to close out games earlier. We need more composure, more conviction and more confidence in our own abilities. We need to grow in these areas.”
Nevertheless, Kehl attested to the team’s significant progress at the end of the year: “We have lost only one game in the Bundesliga this season, conceded fewer goals, worked on injury issues and taken the next step in the medical and fitness areas. These are developments that are part of the process. It’s not about harmony, but about finding a balance. We are on the right track.”
Against the visitors from the Lower Rhine, who had been in good form recently, BVB kept a clean sheet for the eighth time this season – already more than in the entire previous season. Dortmund also equalled a club record: 12 consecutive home wins against one opponent had previously only been achieved against MSV Duisburg between 1977 and 1998.
One of the five newcomers in the starting line-up was Julian Brandt, who had missed the Freiburg game due to injury. The 29-year-old once again proved to be an invigorating element in attack and is currently Dortmund’s leading goalscorer. His technically demanding volley to make it 1-0 was his fourth goal in the last three home games. He had previously scored once against Hoffenheim (2-0) and twice against Bodø/Glimt. “It was important to win this game after so many draws. We’ve had many Christmases without a win, so this feels extremely good,” said Brandt.
Niklas Süle set up the goal with a precise cross. After weeks out with injury, the defender made a solid return to the team and received special praise from the coach. “The fact that he set up the goal shows how much finesse he has in his foot. We know what qualities he has. I’m glad to have him.” Kehl praised the veteran’s performance: “He put in a good performance, especially considering what he’s been through in recent days and how critical the reporting about him has been. I respect how he handled it.”
The professionals don’t have much time to relax. On 2 January, they will head to their training camp in Marbella. In southern Spain, the team will prepare for their first competitive match of the new year on 9 January away to Eintracht Frankfurt. “The players are now looking forward to a few quiet days. However, there won’t be much time to rest. We will have to ramp up relatively quickly to be ready for an intense January,” said Kehl.
