How Julian Brandt influenced Borussia Dortmund’s derby win over Schalke
By Adam Bakr
As has been the case for much of the season, Julian Brandt was the main man behind a Borussia Dortmund win, this time against arch rivals Schalke 04 . Brandt was instrumental in Dortmund’s attacking play throughout the whole game, being heavily involved in the first three goals, picking up two assists in the process.
Outside of the goals, Brandt was the fuel for the Black and Yellow’s counter attacks, with his through balls and lateral switches giving Schalke problems throughout the contest. He also helped Dortmund play around the high numbers their rivals would commit forward late in the game.
The opening goal
The first goal came from a great link up between Julian Brandt and Thorgan Hazard. Brandt’s initial check into the middle pulled Matija Nastasić out of position in the Schalke backline, which was overshadowed by his flick to send Thorgan Hazard in behind to cross into Erling Haaland for the opener and his first Reiverderby goal.
With Schalke’s struggle to put together any attacks and Dortmund’s control of the game, it was a matter of when Dortmund would get the opener, and Brandt’s moment of magic put them on their way. From there on out, Dortmund would have more space to attack, and Brandt took full advantage.
It was the kind of play that made Borussia Dortmund sign him, and the reason they put their faith him to fill in for Reus in the captain’s absence.