Match Review: Borussia Dortmund 2-2 Werder Bremen

In a must needed win to keep title hopes alive, Borussia Dortmund squandered a 2-0 lead going into the second half against Werder Bremen to only come away with a draw and one point.

The first half started strong for the black and yellows, as they were able to find the back of the net 6 minutes in. Christian Pulisic’s talent was on full display as he created a chance out of nowhere with his skill, speed, and dribbling ability. He beat one defender, split the others with his pace, and scored his third goal of the Bundesliga campaign to open the scoring.

While Werder Bremen were able to create some offense of their own, Borussia Dortmund continued to press but were unable to change the scoreline despite creating some quality chances. Mario Gotze was able to find space at the edge of the box with just the keeper, Jiri Pavlenka, to beat. He hits the ball clean to the far post, but Pavlenka was able to get enough of a touch on the ball to keep it wide.

After controlling play for most of the first half, Borussia Dortmund were able to add to their lead in the 41st minute. Scoring his 18th goal of the season, Paco Alcacer’s struck a lovely free kick into the right side to double Dortmund’s lead.

The second half played out much like the first, with Dortmund controlling the play and creating the better chances. Pulisic after another dazzling run, was able to find Gotze in space on the left flank. Gotze whipped in a cross back to the American who just couldn’t get enough on the header and put it in the net.

Still at 2-0, Pulisic whipped a ball across the Bremen box to Abdou Diallo. Faced with an open net, he was unable to connect with the ball as it went through his legs. Dortmund were creating goal scoring opportunities but could not find that 3rd goal that would seemingly put this game away as it should have been as dictated by their play Saturday.

Unfortunately for Borussia Dortmund the next goal conceded was by them. Bremen were able to find the back of the net thanks to a Roman Burki blunder, as Kevin Mohwald hit the ball though his legs from outside the box. This goal gave Werder Bremen some much needed life to turn this game around as they started controlling the play and chances.

Just five minutes later, that momentum shift was reflected in the scoreline. Manual Akanji’s attempt to shield the ball out of play was unsuccessful, as Ludwig Augustinsson cut the ball back to Claudio Pizarro who volleyed it into the next from just a few yards out.

The scoreline wouldn’t change in the last 15 minutes as neither team was able to create that clear cut chance to change the final score of the game.

Final Thoughts

While he’s playing his last games for Borussia Dortmund, it was nice to see Christian Pulisic put on the performance that he did. He is the kind of player Dortmund supporters always hoped he would be, and he was by far the best player on the pitch this Matchday.

This will be a draw that leaves a sour taste in the mouths of the supporters, and I’m sure the players alike. This game was entirely in control in favour of Borussia Dortmund and two mistakes cost them the much needed three points to still have a shot at the title. If not for some great saves on Pavlenka’s part, and some sitters missed (looking at you Diallo), this game could have been put away as it should have been at 3-0. However, this late in the season, it doesn’t matter how you get it, the result is what’s important. Borussia Dortmund in the end did not get the result they needed and now the title race is all but over.