Good morning, Fear the Wall.
Welcome to the end of the season. Borussia Dortmund have been knocked out of the Champions League, and fallen 11 points behind Bayern Munich in first place. BVB are now playing for pride, with the goal of confirming second place and, well, that’s it.
This is a demoralizing place to be. That said, here’s an ounce of perspective. Last season’s run in was exciting because BVB were desperately trying to re-qualify for the UCL, climbing from beyond tenth place to finish fourth.
The season before was similar, but we were also in the Champions League final.
So, which would you rather have? Comfortably second, or thrillingly fourth? Blegh!
BVB News
- BVB’s season is mostly over, but Emre Can’s season is completely over. BVB’s captain tore his ACL in the match against Bayern Munich, due to a completely unnecessary push in the back from Konrad Laimer. With Can’s contract up in the summer, I believe this injury seals his extension. BVB won’t kick their skipper to the curb with a massive injury; they’ll extend him to let him finish his rehab.
- Samuele Inacio made his debut for BVB against Bayern Munich. It was an interesting game for Niko Kovac to run the youngster out, but he did okay. Good for the lad.
- Joshua Kimmich has been named the most unlikeable player in soccer by Fear the Wall writer Zac Weilminster, right now. I do not like that guy, and I never have.
Bundesliga News
- Werder Bremen picked up their first victory since November against Heidenheim, Pushing them past Wolfsburg who are now in the automatic relegation place. I think it’s safe to say Heidenheim, who have had a hard fought few years in the top flight, will be going back down.
- St. Pauli did Dortmund a favor and took three points from Hoffenheim.
- Bayern Leverkusen’s Brazilian full-back Arthur has torn an ankle ligament and will spend a few weeks on the sidelines.
- Schalke 04 are holding onto top spot in the 2.Bundesliga by one point after a draw with Greuther Fürth. Could the Revierderby return in 2026?
How should BVB best utilize their remaining matches? Tactical experiments? Heavy youth development?
