- Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
- Venue: Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund
- Fixture: Borussia Dortmund vs Sporting CP
Match Preview
The Champions League play-off second leg between Borussia Dortmund and Sporting CP promises to be a captivating encounter at the iconic Signal Iduna Park. Dortmund enters the match with a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg in Lisbon, but the unpredictable nature of Champions League football means nothing is certain until the final whistle.
Borussia Dortmund’s recent domestic form has been a mixed bag, with moments of brilliance offset by unexpected stumbles. However, their European performances have been consistently strong, showcasing their tactical flexibility and big-game mentality. In the first leg, Dortmund demonstrated their clinical edge, converting three of their four shots on target. Their ability to soak up pressure and strike on the counter was evident, with Serhou Guirassy opening the scoring against the run of play.
Dortmund’s home record in the Champions League is formidable, having won their last five matches at Signal Iduna Park. The electric atmosphere created by the famous “Yellow Wall” often proves intimidating for visiting teams. Manager Edin Terzić is likely to set up his team in their preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing possession and quick transitions. While protecting their lead will be a priority, Dortmund’s attacking instincts mean they’re unlikely to sit back entirely.
Sporting CP faces a monumental task but will draw inspiration from famous Champions League comebacks of the past. The Portuguese side started aggressively in the first leg, with Maxi Araujo hitting the woodwork early on. However, they struggled to break down Dortmund’s resolute defense, even after introducing their top scorer Viktor Gyökeres.
For the second leg, Sporting Rui Borges must balance the need for goals with defensive stability. Expect them to press high up the pitch from the outset, trying to force errors and create early chances. Their usual 3-4-3 formation may be tweaked to a more attack-minded 3-4-1-2, with Gyökeres likely to start this time. Sporting’s set-piece prowess could be crucial, as they look to exploit any aerial advantages against Dortmund’s defense.
The midfield battle will be key, with Sporting’s Morten Hjulmand tasked with disrupting Dortmund’s rhythm and initiating counter-attacks. For Dortmund, the creative influence of Julian Brandt, who provided an assist in the first leg, will be vital in unlocking Sporting’s defense.
Weather conditions could play a role, with forecasts suggesting a chilly evening with a chance of light rain. This might affect the playing surface and could impact the game’s tempo and style.
While Dortmund holds a significant advantage, Sporting’s need to attack could lead to an open, entertaining match. The first goal will be crucial – an early Sporting strike could shift the momentum and set up a tense finale, while a Dortmund goal would likely extinguish Sporting’s hopes.
Key Players
Borussia Dortmund:
- Serhou Guirassy: Scored one goal and set up another in the first leg. He is also the Champions League top scorer.
- Julian Brandt: Provided the cross for Guirassy’s opening goal in the first leg.
Sporting CP:
- Viktor Gyökeres: Sporting’s lethal forward should pose the home defense constant problems if given adequate service.
- Morten Hjulmand: Tasked with disrupting Dortmund’s rhythm, the Dane will need to be at the top of his game if Sporting are to have any chance of overturning their deficit.
Prediction
Given Dortmund’s strong first-leg performance and home advantage, they are likely to progress. However, expect Sporting to put up a fight.
Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 2-1 Sporting CP (5-1 on aggregate)
