Three takeaways from Borussia Dortmund's 2-1 win over Heidenheim

Borussia Dortmund conquered its first Bundesliga win of 2025. The situation is still worrying, but a balanced performance could be the start of new heights.

1. FC Heidenheim 1846 v Borussia Dortmund - Bundesliga
1. FC Heidenheim 1846 v Borussia Dortmund - Bundesliga | Sebastian Widmann/GettyImages
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Tullberg's celebration is justified and well-deserved

Borussia Dortmund v FC Shakhtar Donetsk - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD8
Borussia Dortmund v FC Shakhtar Donetsk - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD8 | Ralf Ibing - firo sportphoto/GettyImages

I have heard and seen a lot of backlash on social media regarding Tullberg's celebration after full-time. The Dane had a Klopp-like reaction when the referee ended the match, which guaranteed Dortmund's first win in the Bundesliga in 2025. Tullberg's punches in the air and celebratory screams were nostalgic in a sense but brought a lot of criticism due to the club's current situation.

While Sebastian Kehl paid compliments to Tullberg's expontaneous reaction, Didi Hamann, the former football manager, criticized the Danish manager, saying his celebration was "embarrassing." The quotes were not limited to footballing personalities; social media also labeled Tullberg's excitement as "exaggerated" and "out of proportion."

"When it was clear that Niko Kovač was coming, he said: It is not about me. Everything he said in the press conferences, he refuted today. When I saw the pictures, I thought to myself: It is about you. But it is not about him. I found it embarrassing."
Didi Hamann

Despite the club's difficult status in the Bundesliga table, I believe Tullberg was entitled to his post-match celebrations. It was a win that will not completely change Dortmund's situation, one which the club shouldn't even be at, but it is a step in the right direction. It was a controlled and well-executed performance from the players, even with the stressful last few minutes.

Above all, Tullberg deserved to celebrate his good role as an interim manager at Borussia Dortmund, especially against Shakhtar and Heidenheim. He joined the first team during a difficult stage and delivered two good wins, which were so needed to restore confidence in the Westfalenstadion. It is okay to celebrate small wins, and even if the BVB needs to raise its standards, it all starts with small steps.

"The team is alive. I really enjoyed it. I am incredibly happy to hug my three kids today. I have missed them. In the end, I did my job, and now I just hope the team continues like this. I am happy for Niko and hope we can make our way up the table."
Mike Tullberg