Dortmund cruise past Dinamo Zagreb, climb into Champions League top four
Football
By
Standard Sports
| Nov 28, 2024
Borussia Dortmund delivered a commanding performance on Wednesday night, defeating Dinamo Zagreb 3-0 to climb into the Champions League top four. Goals from Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, Ramy Bensebaini, and Serhou Guirassy secured Dortmund's first away win since September and all but confirmed their progression to the knockout stages.
The match opened with a spectacular solo effort from English winger Bynoe-Gittens, who broke the deadlock just before half-time. Picking up the ball at the edge of the box, the 20-year-old weaved past three defenders before unleashing a dipping shot into the top corner, marking his fourth goal in five Champions League appearances this season.
Early in the second half, Ramy Bensebaini doubled the lead, heading in Pascal Gross's precise corner. With a comfortable margin and Saturday's Bundesliga showdown against Bayern Munich looming, Dortmund coach Nuri Sahin introduced fresh legs, including forward Serhou Guirassy, who sealed the win with a well-taken goal in the dying moments.
Sahin Eyes Bayern After Solid Win
Reflecting on the performance, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel praised the team's control. "We didn't let them create much and dominated with the ball. It was a really good game for us," he said.
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Defender Nico Schlotterbeck echoed Kobel's sentiments: "We controlled the game from start to finish. Winning in Zagreb, especially in this atmosphere, is huge for our momentum."
However, the victory came with a concern. Julian Brandt, wearing the captain's armband in Emre Can's absence, limped off before half-time with a suspected thigh injury. "I hope it's not too serious," said Sahin. "Brandt is almost irreplaceable for us."
Looking ahead to the Bayern clash, Kobel remained optimistic. "It'll be a massive fight, but if we give everything, we can aim for the best result."
Zagreb's Fortress Breached
Dinamo Zagreb, buoyed by a recent resurgence after a heavy opening-round loss to Bayern Munich, struggled to find their rhythm. Ronael Pierre-Gabriel's early shot offered a glimpse of hope, but Dortmund's defense remained resolute.
Donyell Malen came close for the visitors, hitting the crossbar in the 28th minute. Minutes later, Bynoe-Gittens' brilliance left Zagreb chasing shadows. Bensebaini's header and Guirassy's late strike further silenced the raucous home crowd.
The atmosphere at Stadion Maksimir was electric despite the venue's reduced capacity-a result of structural damage from a 2020 earthquake. But Dortmund's clinical display ensured the traveling fans left with plenty to cheer about.
On Course for Knockouts
With four wins from five matches, Dortmund's only blemish remains a heavy loss to Real Madrid in October's group stage rematch of last season's final. The victory in Zagreb not only ended their six-game away losing streak but also solidified their position among Europe's elite.
As they prepare to host Bayern this weekend, Dortmund will hope to carry their Champions League form into domestic competition, with Sahin confident his side can rise to the challenge.