Pre-Match Analysis: Dortmund travels to Bologna in critical Champions League Clash

Borussia Dortmund has struggled in 2025, losing each of their three opening matches. Nuri Sahin knows that anything less than a win against Bologna may cost him his job. 

Borussia Dortmund v Celtic FC - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD2
Borussia Dortmund v Celtic FC - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 | Jürgen Fromme - firo sportphoto/GettyImages
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Players to Watch

Holstein Kiel v Borussia Dortmund - Bundesliga
Holstein Kiel v Borussia Dortmund - Bundesliga | Sebastian El-Saqqa - firo sportphoto/GettyImages

Karim Adeyemi & Waldemar Anton: Since returning from injury, Karim Adeyemi has shown a few glimpses of his brilliance, but he hasn’t dazzled. What better opportunity to be the star of the show than an away match in the Champions League? If BVB are to secure a win, then I think Karim will play a major role. Waldemar Anton, on the other hand, will be holding the line and securing the defense. In a squad that has looked lackadaisical recently, Anton has provided some stability. 

Santiago Castro & Riccardo Orsolini: Since signing for Bologna a year ago as a nineteen-year-old, Santiago Castro has been given plenty of opportunities to develop as a young, up-and-coming striker. He’s been in fine form this January, scoring in each of Bologna’s previous two matches. Riccardo Orsolini is Bologna’s top scorer this season, and he provides a potent attacking threat from the left side, something which could make life difficult for Dortmund’s left-back choice.