Match Recap: Borussia Dortmund vs Rielasingen
Reigning champions Borussia Dortmund stomp opposition in first round of DFB Pokal
Borussia Dortmund faced off against 6th tier side Rielasingen in Freiburg last night. Peter Bosz’s side featured in his favored 4-3-3 formation, fielding a starting eleven consisting of mostly veterans. Each department, with the exception of Roman Burki between the sticks, had one youngster featuring for Der BVB. Jan-Niklas Beste played at left-back, Mahmoud Dahoud featured in the midfield, and new signing Maximillian Philipp started on the right wing.
The match kicked off and Dortmund looked to be the dominant side the whole time. Peter Bosz’s side possessed the ball for 82% of the time, and mustered 23 shots total compared to Rielasingen’s measly 6.
Highlights of the match
Unlikely goalscorer Marc Bartra gave Dortmund fans a show as he opened up the scoring, courtesy of a Beste assist. There was something about the way he celebrated that made me envision him being a fan favorite for years to come. He looks rather good in the yellow and black armor of Dortmund.
After that, Aubameyang flicked a beautiful long ball to Maxi Philipp, who dribbled into the box, only to be taken down by Rielasingen’s goalkeeper and center-back. A penalty was called, and Aubameyang put it away with confidence and style.
Later, Aubameyang almost scored a bullet header that would’ve been quite a beauty. To be honest though, the save from Rielasingen’s goalkeeper was absolutely splendid, and definitely deserved its time on the highlight reel.
Despite the work put in to keep him out, Rielasingen’s defense couldn’t keep the Gabonese striker out forever. A through-ball from Mahmoud Dahoud sent Aubameyang running on a breakaway, with two defenders behind him. He finished with his trademark chip shot over the keeper, and Dortmund enjoyed a third goal in the match.
Lastly, a shot from Dahoud was deflected and the ball landed right at the feet of an offside Aubameyang. To the surprise of most, the linesman didn’t raise his flag, and further defensive blunders from Rielasingen’s center-backs led to the fourth and final goal of the game.
Rielasingen had a few breakaways here & there but their attempts only led to Burki making a mere two saves the entire match.
Key takeaways
#1 Aubameyang
The striker looked to be in good spirits today, and enjoyed the service from his teammates. Even without his closest friends on the pitch, he still looks like he enjoys donning the Dortmund shirt. A hat trick for him showed yet again how important he is to this side.
#2 Beste
The young fullback was lethal on the flanks, and shows he has a high offensive work rate. He registered one assist for Bartra’s goal, and nearly got another one, had Aubameyang’s header not been so spectacularly saved. We must keep in mind, however, that he is young, and this was a 6th tier side. Time will tell if this kid is the real deal, but I think he could be a fun project for Peter Bosz.
#3 Center-backs
The amateur side didn’t score any goals, but that doesn’t mean the Dortmund defense was stellar. There were a couple times when Rielasingen’s attack went through our flanks or even some way down the center, putting the team in situations that could’ve been easily avoided. We all know Dortmund has never been known for having an iron defense. Either way, it has to improve if the Black and Yellows want to mount any realistic challenges for silverware this season.
#4 Kagawa’s back!
Shinji Kagawa was given his first minutes since being out for a shoulder injury. The attacking midfielder was subbed on in the second half for an underwhelming Andre Schurrle. He managed to get a shot that made viewers get ready to jump in the air in excitement, but nothing came of it. His inclusion in the squad is surely welcomed by all.
#5 No Injuries
Probably the most important take away from this game was that Dortmund managed to get through a match without sustaining any injuries. Off late, it appears that the German side’s players have been dropping like flies. The training ground is turning into a rehabilitation center. Borussia Dortmund Hospital FC didn’t have any additions today, and we can all be grateful for that.