Borussia were more commanding, more controlled and more effective against VfL Wolfsburg than in Paris, in Bochum or at home to Heidenheim. After a shot tally of 6-5 in the first half, BVB had 12 to VfL's three in the second half and deserved the win. The most hard-running player on the pitch, Marco Reus, scored the game's goal.

64% possession, a 66% challenge win rate and a pass completion rate of 88% flashed up on the scoreboard at a sold-out SIGNAL IDUNA PARK at half-time, but so did a 0-0 scoreline. Despite their visible commitment, the team had only created a few goalscoring opportunities. They continued to be dominant and patient after the break. When they managed to pick up the tempo against an opponent that defended consistently and man-to-man, it resulted in chances – and also the winning goal by Marco Reus following some lovely link-up play involving Donyell Malen and Julian Brandt. The 34-year-old made it 1-0 in a Bundesliga match for the 62nd time; he has now moved above Jupp Heynckes into fifth position in the all-time list in this category. He had played himself into the starting line-up thanks to strong performances in training and as a substitute in Freiburg (scorer of the goal that made it 4-2) and in Paris.

The team's unity and defensive determination were pleasing. Wolfsburg only had two clear chances to score through Tiago Tomas in the 37th minute, which Gregor Kobel saved, and Jonas Wind, who just missed on 77 minutes. "Today was a step in the right direction," remarked Edin Terzic.

After five rounds of matches, Borussia Dortmund have 11 points on the board (one fewer than last season), an almost identical goal difference (9-5, last year: 8-4) and are still unbeaten domestically. On Friday it's off to Hoffenheim, who have started strongly and have 12 points on the board after their 2-0 win away to Union Berlin this Saturday. (br)