Borussia Dortmund’s ruthless display leaves Dinamo Zagreb reeling in Champions League

Borussia Dortmund took a big step in the right direction toward the round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League with a strong 3-0 away win against Dinamo Zagreb. The Black and Yellow dominated their Croatian counterparts away from home at the Maksimir Stadium, notching their fourth win in the competition to reach 12 points in the fight for qualification.

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A Dominant Start but Limited Results

From the opening minutes, Dortmund made their intentions known. Dominant in possession and pace of the game, the Germans were suffocating Dinamo Zagreb, who had only one idea: to defend. First, Ramy Bensebaini was dangerous with a sharp header that hit the cross after an accurate cross, while Donyell Malen, a few minutes later, was able to force a tough save from goalkeeper Zagorac, keeping the Croatian team in the game.

Having been dominant, Dortmund had failed to turn such chances into goals as misplaced passes in the final third, coupled with a well-organized defense, stalled their breakthrough. But at the 41st minute, this pressure finally paid off as a loose ball was taken hold of by Bynoe-Gittens, whose shot was well-placed and beat the goalkeeper from outside the box to the top corner.

Efficiency and Calm

In the second half, Dortmund didn't waste time. At the 56th minute, Ramy Bensebaini, who had already created danger earlier, rose unchallenged to head home a well-delivered corner, extending the visitors' lead.

With the score at 2-0, coach Edin Terzić made changes, substituting Gittens, Sabitzer, and other key players. This opened opportunities for players like Serhou Guirassy, who made his mark in the final moments. Receiving a long pass from Schlotterbeck, Guirassy broke through the defense and finished clinically to seal the 3-0 victory.

An Impenetrable Defense

But as impressive as Dortmund's attack was, their defense deserves a great deal of credit. Hardly tested throughout the match, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel benefited from the solid backline marshaled by Schlotterbeck and Bensebaini, which neutralized every offensive attempt coming from Dinamo Zagreb.

Sabitzer was commanding in midfield, with his breaking lines and recovery of possession at vital junctures that ensured the momentum of the match stayed with Dortmund.

What This Victory Means

With this result, Borussia Dortmund now has 12 points from five matches, virtually securing their spot in the next stage. Meanwhile, Dinamo Zagreb's struggles continue. They failed to impose themselves against a clearly superior team, and their chances of advancing in the Champions League are now nearly non-existent.