Karim Adeyemi's rocket gives Borussia Dortmund narrow win over Wolfsburg
Karim Adeyemi's stunning long-range strike secured a 1-0 win for Borussia Dortmund against Wolfsburg, with Niko Kovač's side maintaining their unbeaten start to the season and moving second in the table.
Borussia Dortmund 1-0 Wolfsburg
Goal: 1-0 Adeyemi 20' (assist: Ryerson)
Dortmund came into this match looking to build on their strong start to the season, having collected seven points from their first three Bundesliga matches. Nico Schlotterbeck made his first appearance since March after a lengthy injury layoff, replacing Yan Couto in Kovač's only change from the midweek 4-4 UEFA Champions League thriller against Juventus.
The BVB coach faced his former employers, having managed Wolfsburg between 2022 and 2024. The visitors arrived unbeaten too with one win and two draws to their name so far.
Adeyemi breaks deadlock with stunner
Dortmund started with purpose, having three shots on goal within the opening five minutes. The hosts maintained their pressure and were rewarded spectacularly in the 20th minute. After Wolfsburg surrendered possession with imprecise build-up play, the ball fell to Adeyemi who unleashed an unstoppable left-footed drive that flew into the top corner.
Borussia should have doubled their advantage before half-time, with Maximilian Beier missing two excellent opportunities. First, he headed narrowly wide from Julian Ryerson's pinpoint cross, and then in the 44th minute, he was denied by a good save from Kamil Grabara after cutting in from the left.
Wolfsburg hit woodwork but Dortmund hold firm
The visitors came agonisingly close to equalising in the 59th-minute. Mohamed Amoura headed a crossed free-kick back to Konstantinos Koulierakis, whose powerful effort struck the underside of the crossbar and bounced down on the goal line before Dortmund cleared the danger.
The hour mark saw Wolfsburg introduce Christian Eriksen for his Bundesliga debut. BVB continued to control proceedings, with Felix Nmecha forcing another impressive save from Grabara with a header from a corner. Kovač's side professionally managed the closing stages to secure a valuable clean sheet and all three points.
Player of the Match: Karim Adeyemi
The 23-year-old forward was Dortmund's standout performer, not only scoring the decisive goal but also providing a constant threat throughout the match. Adeyemi's pace and directness caused problems for the Wolfsburg defence all evening.
He recorded four shots in total – more than any other player. The goal continued his excellent form following his strike and assist against Juventus in midweek, with the Germany international proving to be a key attacking outlet for Kovač's side.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Dortmund 0.94 - Wolfsburg 0.69
Fastest player: Adam Daghim (Wolfsburg), 35.75 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 1-0 by Karim Adeyemi (Dortmund), 3 percent
Most pressed player: Karim Adeyemi (Dortmund), 20 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Marcel Sabitzer (Dortmund), +4.54
Fantasy Heroes: Julian Ryerson (Dortmund, 290 Points), Karim Adeyemi (Dortmund, 267 Points), Ramy Bensebaini (Dortmund, 195 Points)
Related news
Adeyemi enjoying the Kovač effect
Currently on a fine run of goalscoring form, Karim Adeyemi is using his "God-given talents" to impress Dortmund coach Niko Kovač.
Adeyemi's header helps Dortmund beat Leverkusen
In a close game, Dortmund overcame Leverkusen thanks to two superb headed goals.
Adeyemi apologises for weapon possession
The Germany and Dortmund forward has spoken out about charges brought against him.