Carney Chukwuemeka (8/10) – While Chukwuemeka did not earn a goal or assist, he was heavily involved in the build-up to each of Dortmund’s three goals. He had the hockey assist in the first, his pass created the chance of the second, and if Guirassy had scored his second chance, Chukwuemeka would have had the assist- instead, Svensson scored after Guirassy’s shot was saved. This was his best performance in black and yellow, in my humble opinion.
Julian Ryerson (7/10) – Ryerson’s substitution made perfect sense. As Yan Couto was slowing down and getting muscled off the ball, Kovač swapped him for Ryerson, who brought a physicality that was much needed to prevent a full-on comeback from Gladbach.
Emre Can, Salih Özcan, Julian Brandt (N/A) – I don’t have too much to say on these three, but we could see Brandt’s lack of confidence as he ran directly at goal, opting for a near-impossible cutback when he was clear on goal.
Niko Kovač (7/10) – Kovač tried to take what worked against Barcelona and apply it today, but the opponent was not only prepared, but also playing for the win, as these three points were vitally important for both sides. With Beier’s injury came the opportunity for Kovač to adjust his tactics before halftime, and Carney Chukwuemeka was the perfect profile for what BVB needed in this match.
The second half was quite shaky at times, as BVB struggled for control, and following the conceded goal, Monchengladbach looked up for the challenge. I’m glad that Kovač didn’t wait to make necessary changes, with the introduction of Ryserson for Couto, and the trio of Brandt, Özcan, and Emre Can. It was a bit of a gamble, switching out Süle for Emre Can late, but the decision paid off as Dortmund held onto their narrow lead through the final whistle.