Analysing Borussia Dortmund’s UEFA Champions League group stage opponents
By Tushar Bahl
Zenit Saint Petersburg
Zenit Saint Petersburg were placed in pot one of the Champions League draw after winning the Russian Premier League title for the second season running. They boast a strong squad, led by the free-scoring strike duo of Artem Dzyuba and Sardar Azmoun. The strike partners combined for a whopping 42 goals last season, and have started the new campaign in great form.
Head coach Sergei Semak likes to use the 4-4-2/4-2-3-1 formation, with former Borussia Dortmund target Malcom and Russia international Aleksandr Erokhin providing the service for Dzyuba and Azmoun. The 44 year old tactician has established a pragmatic, physical and direct style of play since taking charge of the club in 2018.
Zenit’s defence is led by former Liverpool centre-back Dejan Lovren. While Colombian international Wilmar Barrios orchestrates their play from the middle of the park. His battle against Axel Witsel and Marco Reus will certainly be an intriguing watch.
Zenit finished bottom in their Champions League group last season, and haven’t reached the knockout stage of the competition since the 2015/16 season, when they were eliminated by Benfica in the round of 16. But their recent performances in Europe do not do full justice to the quality they have in their ranks, and they will be determined to change that record this season.