Borussia Dortmund player ratings from a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Stuttgart

In Niko Kovač's first match as a BVB manager, Borussia Dortmund lost 2-1 at home to Stuttgart. The match was marked by wasted opportunities, poor mistakes, and referee controversies.
Borussia Dortmund v VfB Stuttgart - Bundesliga
Borussia Dortmund v VfB Stuttgart - Bundesliga | Christof Koepsel/GettyImages
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Marcel Sabitzer (3/10) – Sabitzer has been having problems performing to the same standard as last season's, and today was another example of that statement. He was ineffective in distribution and was, overall, the man responsible for Stuttgart's first goal. He should have been there into the space Führich sprinted on, which obligated the whole defense to shift out of its natural setup.

Pascal Groß (4/10) – The midfield was likely the most disappointing sector of the team. Groß did not contribute either defensively or offensively, as his setpiece taking was below his good standards from previous games.

Julian Brandt (6/10) – Brandt had a few good one-twos but ultimately could not engage much offensively as his old self used to. His goal gave some perspective to fans for a hypothetical comeback attempt.