What we learned from Borussia Dortmund’s dominant derby win over Schalke

Dahoud impresses against Schalke, Meunier out for redemption

In a game that needed all of Borussia Dortmund’s contingent to perform at the highest level to secure the much needed three points, fans will be happy to see that the whole team put in a solid, impressive display. Of the players to get time on the pitch, few impressed as much as Mo Dahoud however, and it wasn’t because of a sublime goal or assist either.

Dahoud’s performance was exemplary because the German international played like he was the fire and passion of the derby personified. From rasping strikes at the Schalke goal to expressing his creativity on the pitch, Dahoud contributed to some very exciting forward play, linking up well with his teammates but also doing a lot of the engine work for Dortmund – many of the interceptions Schalke gave up came courtesy of Dahoud’s positioning and seemingly never ending supply of energy, which made it clear that he was out to show Lucien Favre that he can be an important part of this team in what is a very stacked midfield. In a season where games are condensed and coming in quick succession, it will be nice to see Dahoud get more chances so he can continue to shine.

With regards to Thomas Meunier, it would be hard to say that the Belgian international has had an easy start to life in Dortmund. Having been culpable in a growing number of poor defensive situations already this season, especially in the most recent outing against Lazio in the Champions League, Meunier put on what is sure to be a confidence boosting performance in the win over Schalke.

The defensive side of his game was much more solid, his pivotal block on Bastian Oczipka’s shot in the 33rd minute a good example of this, as it quelled one of the few good chances Schalke had on goal quite soundly.

On the offensive end, Meunier’s crossing seemed to improve during this game too, with his passes attaining a higher level of accuracy. His growing confidence was evident as in the 36th minute, where Meunier put in one of the finest passes of the game, a very easy on the eye – outside of the foot cross to Gio Reyna, who was lurking at the left post.

It almost ended in a goal for the young American, but more importantly it gave us more of a glimpse as to what Meunier can do when he is on his game.