Horn's emotional return: "Unbelievable how the lads worked"

“It's incredibly emotional for me and my family. Coming back after three years is not something to take for granted. I'm grateful that Bochum have given me the chance to prove myself again,” Horn told Sky after the match.

Horn had his first big test in the 11th minute when Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy fired a shot from 14 yards. Horn reacted quickly, diving low to his left to deny the early opener.

“Without a doubt, a save like that gives you confidence, gives the team confidence, and really helped me settle into my game,” explained the Köln-born goalkeeper.

From that point, Horn was rarely called into action as Dortmund struggled to capitalise on further chances. Guirassy and Nico Schlotterbeck both blazed shots over the bar just before half-time, and Bochum’s defence stood resolute throughout.

Horn was quick to praise his teammates, saying: “It was unbelievable how hard the lads worked today, how much ground they covered, and how well they defended everything. Everyone can be proud of that. It was a fantastic defensive performance from the whole team.”

Whether Horn will continue to play a key role in Bochum's survival fight remains uncertain, with first-choice goalkeeper Patrick Drewes expected to be available for next Saturday's trip to Wolfsburg.

Reflecting on his role, Horn said: “That's just how it is in goalkeeping, only one can play, and you have to wait for your chance. Today, mine came, and I think I made good use of it.”

“Of course, when I signed in the summer, my big goal was to become the long-term number one. That's what I work towards every day.”

Horn, however, was quick to acknowledge that this decision remains fully in the hands of manager Dieter Hecking, with “personal feelings” being required to be left aside.