Match report: Dortmund beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-2

Finally a win for BVB. Dortmund won 3-2 at home to Bayer Leverkusen giving them a crucial 3 point lead on the table. Bayer’s goals came from Kevin Volland and Jonathan Tah. Dortmund’s goals came from, Dan-Axel Zagadou, Jadon Sancho and Mario Gotze.

The first half started very poor for BVB. Bayer kept over 80% possession in the first 30 mins, something that Dortmund almost never allows at home. Our first goal turned things around. off a corner the ball got to Zagadou who shot it in easily. The game looked more even after that and 7 minutes later Volland tied it up. Bayer didn’t stay level for long as a Diallo cross to Sancho put us up again. Sancho’s goal was a beauty and just the thing he needs to get him back on track. The half ended 2-1 without much more fanfare.

The second half was more even throughout then the first. Despite Leverkusen dominating the first 10 mins or so, the last 35 mins of the game were back and forth and strong from both sides. at the 60th minute Gotze scored what would be the winning goal. This game showed just how much better Gotze is in an attacking midfield position then at striker. Hopefully Favre keeps him there in games Reus does not play. Bayer’s second goal came off a set piece free kick that Raphael stupidly gave up. Despite more then a few corners and FKs in the final 15 minutes plus 5 of bonus time, Dortmund held on to the 3-2 lead.

Overall this was the exact kind of game Dortmund needed to show they could play. Despite being dominated and blowing leads, they managed to keep their heads in it and pull off the win. Bayer have been red hot and Dortmund despite being off their game this month put them away. Akanji’s return was much needed and it showed how comfortable Diallo was playing alongside him. Despite struggling early Weigl had one of his better games in the midfield this season, with a couple of big defensive tackles to boot. Overall a convincing win for BVB. Zagadou had a clinical finish and made few defensive mistakes after his goal. Axel Witsel again kept us in it. Dortmund seem to always have a midfielder they start every game. Hopefully it doesn't burn Witsel out because we need him.

What did you think of the game?