Dortmund’s Defensive Struggles Highlighted Ahead of Champions League Clash

Borussia Dortmund recently faltered in their match against VfB Stuttgart, relinquishing a 2-0 lead before regaining the advantage, only to concede a last-minute equalizer. This result has caused the team to lose ground to Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich.

In light of Dortmund’s upcoming UEFA Champions League match against Villarreal, captain Emre Can was asked about the team’s defensive performance.

“We need to maintain our focus in the final minutes of the game,” said Can. “While fatigue is a factor, it is essential that everyone makes the extra effort, even when it is challenging. I sincerely hope we can improve in this aspect moving forward.”

Despite receiving praise for their defensive efforts this season, Dortmund’s late-game lapses against Stuttgart have raised questions about their mentality. Notably, in the current Champions League phase, only Union Saint-Gilloise, Copenhagen, and Ajax have conceded more goals than Dortmund.

Can recently returned to the field, playing consecutive matches for the first time this season after recovering from an adductor injury. On his fitness, the 31-year-old remarked, “I’m not quite at 100 percent yet. It takes time to regain full fitness after an extended injury.”

Dortmund’s captain is expected to feature in the upcoming match alongside Waldemar Anton and Nico Schlotterbeck. He expressed his preference for playing defensively, stating, “I genuinely enjoy playing in the defensive position as it allows me to see the entire field. It suits my style well. I currently feel very comfortable in this role, but if the coach needs me in the number six position, I will give my utmost effort there as well.”

— GGFN | Daniel Pinder