It’s not a defeat on Matchday Six for Borussia Dortmund, but that will be among the few positives for BVB after a 1-1 draw with rivals RB Leipzig. The Red Bull side came hot out of the gate to capitalize on some poor defending from BVB, but Dortmund would do the same, leveling the score to what would ultimately be the final result. The match sees Dortmund enter the international break with Leipzig in the rearview mirror, but with Bayern Munich yet to play, the league leaders could expand the gap
between first and second this weekend. Der Klassiker becomes all the more important.
Here are today’s candidates for MOTM.
Yan Couto
Couto was there when needed for BVB, popping up to collect Guirassy’s layoff and secure Dortmund’s only goal on the night. While his early defending left a bit to be desired, Couto was effective in possession, and BVB struggled to advance the ball on the right side after he departed the match. Kovac needs to balance time between Ryerson and Couto, but when Couto departs, someone needs to shoulder the load in ball progression. The drop off is significant.
Nico Schlotterbeck
Schlotterbeck was effective today despite an early yellow card. Playing cautiously, he still managed six clearances, three interceptions, and five ball recoveries. Schlotterbeck stabilizes this defense, and the performances of Bensebaini and Anton are clearly lifted as a result.
Daniel Svensson
The engine room. Another ninety minutes for Svensson, who looks no worse for wear. Svensson continued to effectively progress the ball and create an outlet for his side. He managed to complete 33 of 37 passes, mostly under pressure, and won about half his challenges. It was not a perfect performance from Svensson, but it wasn’t a perfect performance for anyone on the pitch in Black and Yellow today. Another shift for the Swede.
Gregor Kobel
I could have gone for another outfield player here, but I would rather recognize a few important saves and plays from the Swiss shot stopper, Gregor Kobel. Sure, his clean sheet streak has ended, but Kobel was important again today, snuffing out counterattacks from Leipzig and making two important saves at the fullest extent of his reach. Dortmund rely on Kobel, and sometimes his heroics become a part of the expectation. Today, he gets some recognition here.
Let us know in the comments who rose above the rest on Matchday Six.
