FC Schalke 04 2-2 Borussia Dortmund: Key Takeaways

Raphaël Guerreiro flourishes in new midfield role

While there are quite few negatives that one could dissect regarding this game for Borussia Dortmund, there were a few standout performances that really did catch the eye nonetheless. Like Schlotterbeck, Raphaël Guerreiro had a good night for his club, notching a goal and an assist from a more central position on the pitch.

Traditionally used as more of a left back, Rapha has been lauded for many skills outside the realm of the defensive part of his game, namely his ability to find the back of the net and create chances for his teammates. Rapha showcased both quite vividly against Schalke when he scored Dortmund’s second on the night after finding himself on the end of a quick and inspired counter attack.

Of the players on the pitch, it was two Dortmund defenders, one playing in a more advanced position, that looked to be the most threatening players going forward. It is a reality that Dortmund can only do so much to contend with, especially with recent injuries having quite a big say in who they could field. Rapha’s performance however is a silver lining in this result and will give Edin Terzić some food for thought when setting up his team in the future.

Final thoughts

With Borussia Dortmund’s game against Schalke now firmly behind them, there’s very little use in crying over spilled milk. The reality is that yes, Die Schwarzgelben had a good opportunity to take back three points and maintain pressure on Bayern, but whether they can push for the title or not is still in their hands.

The game against Bayern in April was always going to be a must-win for the club to come away with silverware this season. Every point in between now and that game will be critical as well. But anything but a win against Bayern Munich would likely spell curtains for their Bundesliga title hopes.