Borussia Dortmund returned to winning ways in the preseason with a narrow 1-0 defeat of FC Tokyo on Saturday.
Fabio Silva struck the only goal of the game in the 54th minute as the Black and Yellow welcomed back many of their World Cup stars.
Waldemar Anton, Felix Nmecha, Maximilian Beier, Daniel Svensson and Carney Chukwuemeka all started for the BVB as Niko Kovac's team were dominant throughout.
FC Tokyo though, displayed encouraging resistence against the onslaught, clearing their lines spectacularly and causing a few nervy moments on the break.
However, the J1 League side never created enough chances at the other end to hurt Dortmund, who held on to their lead and wrapped up the BVB Evonik Japan Tour on a positive note.
Here are three talking points from the match:
1) Fabio Silva liberates himself
At long last, we have Fabio Silva score a goal. And it was a goal straight out of the top drawer too. Daniel Svensson curled a ball inside the box which Silva controlled with his head before fending off his marker for a quick turn and slam a powerful strike into the bottom corner.
Having been the most creative player on the field, the Portuguese striker deserved it. He had been knocking on Tokyo's door with his mazy runs, successful take-ons, and wonderful ball control while also laying two crosses.
2) Waldemar Anton is still the BVB linchpin
While much was made of Nico Schlotterbeck and how indispensable he was to Dortmund's backline, it was Waldemar Anton who truly emerged as their chief linchpin in defense with his leadership, a commanding presence and impressive consistency.
The same was on display here too, with the Germany international moping up any incoming dangers to never let any Tokyo player get much joy in their half. He made five clearances, blocked one shot and made four recoveries alongside winning two of his three ground duels.
3) Patrick Drewes takes his chance
For all their preseason so far, Niko Kovac stuck with Alexander Meyer in goal and brought on Patrick Drewes off the bench. Here, the BVB manager finally gave Drewes a chance to start in the XI and he didn't disappoint.
The third-choice 'keeper made four saves in the game, including two from inside the box while also reading the game brilliantly enough to come off his line and clear an incoming danger as Drewes proved his mettle with a fine display.
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