Dortmund secure crucial win in Newcastle, Leipzig see off Serbian opposition
Borussia Dortmund made the trip to Newcastle for Matchday 3 of their Champions League campaign. Coach Terzić’s plans were dealt a blow when Julian Brandt was ruled out with a calf problem. However, Felix Nmecha’s first-half goal gave Die Schwarzgelben a 1-0 victory. Meanwhile, Leipzig ran out 3-1 winners over Crvena Zvezda.
An anticipated lively start was reflected inside the initial exchanges as both Kobel and Pope were kept extremely busy. While Dortmund’s shot stopper kept Anthony Gordon out twice, Pope made several sublime saves to deny Fullkrug and Malen at the double. Ex-Dortmund man Isak limped off on 15 minutes as Callum Wilson filled in.
The game’s intensity started to drop after what was a frantic, end-to-end half hour for both sides. Further injury woes haunted Dortmund as Emre Can limped to the touchline holding his leg. On the stroke of half time, Dortmund forged a 1-0 lead. Some excellent work from Schlotterbeck picked out Nmecha who finished with a cushioned instep.
Dortmund resumed where they left off in the worsening conditions, but Kobel was key in maintaining their lead on 57 minutes. Callum Wilson left astounded by the point-blank reflex save. Terzić’s cavalry arrived in the form of Haller, Reyna, and Süle with just over 10 minutes to go.
There was a heart-in-mouth moment for BVB players and fans alike as Callum Wilson’s header clipped off the crossbar. The act was repeated by Gordon in injury time as his effort deflected off the aluminium. Terzić’s Dortmund with a crucial three points to put them back in the hunt to advance from Group F.
Leipzig 3 – Crvena Zvezda 1
Elsewhere, RB Leipzig saw off the challenge of Serbian side Crvena Zvezda this evening. Marco Rose went with a full-strength side after their weekend defeat of Darmstadt.
David Raum gave Die Roten Bullen a 12th minute lead after some excellent work from Forsberg and Simons. The German full-back remained ice cool to slot beneath the legs of goalkeeper Glazer in the process.
Xavi Simons extended the Saxon club’s advantage before the hour in spectacular fashion. Cutting in centrally, the Dutchman star blasted into the top right corner from 18 metres out.
Crvena Zvezda did reduce the deficit with 20 minutes to play through Stamenic, but Leipzig substitute Dani Olmo would put a seal on the game as he made it 3-1 on 84 minutes. Marco Rose’s side with vital breathing space in the Group G race.