Borussia Dortmund's first-half blitz secures victory over Gladbach in five-goal thriller
Borussia Dortmund staged a thrilling comeback to defeat Borussia Mönchengladbach with goals from Serhou Guirassy, Felix Nmecha, and Daniel Svensson increasing BVB hopes of European qualification.
Borussia Dortmund 3-2 Borussia Mönchengladbach
Goals: 0-1 Itakura 24', 1-1 Guirassy 41' (assist: Groß), 2-1 Nmecha 44' (assist: Couto), 3-1 Svensson (45'+5), 3-2 Stöger 56' pen.
The match, a crucial fixture for both sides in their quest for continental football, saw Dortmund overcome an early setback to secure a vital victory. The visitors stunned the home crowd in the 24th minute when Ko Itakura broke the deadlock with a well-taken goal. The Japanese defender's strike, coming against the run of play, momentarily silenced the Signal Iduna Park.
Dortmund respond in style
However, Dortmund's response was emphatic. Serhou Guirassy continued his fine form, equalising in the 41st minute with a clinical finish. By this point, momentum had shifted, and the hosts capitalised ruthlessly. Felix Nmecha put BVB ahead just three minutes later, before Daniel Svensson extended the lead deep into first-half stoppage time with an acrobatic effort. The three-goal blitz in just nine minutes turned the game on its head, sending Dortmund into the break with a commanding 3-1 lead.
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Chukwuemeka's impact and Gladbach's fightback
A significant moment came in the 35th minute when Maximilian Beier was forced off due to injury, with Carney Chukwuemeka coming on as his replacement. The substitute made an immediate impact, playing a crucial role in Dortmund's comeback. The second half saw Gladbach attempt to mount a fightback of their own. Their efforts were rewarded in the 56th minute when Kevin Stöger converted a penalty, bringing the score to 3-2 and injecting new life into the contest. The goal set up a tense finale, with Gladbach pushing for an equaliser and Dortmund looking to preserve their lead.
Dortmund hold firm
Despite the visitors' pressure, Dortmund's defence stood firm. The home side's ability to control possession and create more chances proved crucial in seeing out the win that lifts the Black-and-Yellows to seventh in the standings.
Key performers shine
While Guirassy's equaliser was crucial in turning the tide, several other Dortmund players made significant contributions. Pascal Groß showcased his importance with the highest pass efficiency for Dortmund, dictating play from midfield. Svensson's acrobatic goal just before half-time helped to provide daylight between the teams.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Dortmund 1.21 - Gladbach 1.35
Fastest player: Beier (Dortmund), 34.76 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 3-1 by Svensson (Dortmund), 38 per cent
Most pressed player: Karim Adeyemi (Dortmund), 19 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Waldemar Anton (Dortmund), +1.75
Fantasy Heroes: Pascal Groß (Dortmund, 219 Points), Daniel Svensson (Dortmund, 207 Points), Kevin Stöger (Mönchengladbach, 244 Points)
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