Borussia Dortmund made a successful start to 2021 with a 2-0 victory over VfL Wolfsburg. "It's important that we pick up from there on Saturday and come off the pitch with a successful result," explained BVB coach Edin Terzic as he looked ahead to Matchday 15's top game away to Rasenballsport Leipzig (kick-off 18:30 CET).

"The whole of January will be pivotal in determining the rest of the Bundesliga season. Obviously, you can quickly make an impact on your position in the table against your direct rivals, hence why the game on Saturday is very important," said Terzic of the match-up with second-placed Leipzig. The Black & Yellows currently occupy fourth place. "I see us somewhat in the role of the hunter due to our position in the table. We want to close the gap to Leipzig and the top of the table. We therefore welcome this game," explained sporting director Michael Zorc. 

Leipzig have lost on only one occasion in the current Bundesliga campaign (against Mönchengladbach) and are unbeaten in eight games. They have the best home and defensive records (only nine goals conceded) in the division. "They're up there in every statistical category, except for top goalscorers and assisters. But that doesn't mean that they're not dangerous going forward," Terzic stated. "They share the load among a number of players. That makes them unpredictable and difficult to play against."

BVB have won their last two away matches against the side from Saxony – a 2-0 victory in the 2019/20 season and a 1-0 triumph in 2018/19. The Black & Yellows are unbeaten in five games against Leipzig. There have been three wins and two draws during that run.

They have often been meetings of equals, according to Terzic. "They've often been open games in which both teams have played attractive and attacking football. We've often had not only the quality but also the luck needed to decide games in our favour." He believes that BVB can expect a similar game at the weekend – "a meeting of equals in which two strong attacking teams go head to head. We'll give everything in our power to come out on top in this game too."

In terms of personnel, there are only a few changes compared to last weekend. Thorgan Hazard, Jude Bellingham and Marcel Schmelzer are still unavailable. Youssoufa Moukoko did complete some elements of team training on Wednesday. Once the two sessions on Thursday and Friday are done and dusted, a decision will be taken as to whether the forward boards the plane to Leipzig.
Christina Reinke

BVB TV by 1&1: Rasenballsport Leipzig pre-match press conference