Pre-Match Analysis: Dortmund seeks first win of 2025 against Shakhtar Donetsk

Mike Tullberg and Borussia Dortmund face a difficult task as they hope to win the UEFA Champions League league phase. A win could see BVB finish in the top eight, but it will ultimately depend on other results.

Bologna FC 1909 v Borussia Dortmund - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7
Bologna FC 1909 v Borussia Dortmund - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 | Alessandro Sabattini/GettyImages
1 of 5

Interim coach Mike Tullberg will look to improve Borussia Dortmund's form further. After losing each of their opening four matches this year, manager Nuri Sahin was sacked, and Dortmund’s U19 trainer was temporarily put in charge of the first team.

Tullberg’s first game in charge saw the Black and Yellows find a two-goal lead despite being a man down, but a determined Werder Bremen side fought back to earn a draw. The match was disappointing, but it was BVB’s best result of the calendar year. 

Borussia Dortmund’s weekend draw was far from flawless. Still, there appeared to be a marked improvement in the stability of the system used, and perhaps the change of direction might instill a new sense of purpose among Dortmund’s leaders. It’s nearly the end of January, and we, the fans, deserve a win. Let’s see what Borussia Dortmund can do. 

Here is the team news, probable lineups, and match predictions for Borussia Dortmund’s Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk: