Dortmund Principles Of Play

With the resumption of the Bundesliga this weeks analysis focuses on Dortmund’s comprehensive 4-0 win over Schalke.

This was certainly a one sided affair, yes Schalke were poor but Dortmund were devastating.

One thing was evident in watching Dortmund is that they are incredibly organised and every player understands their role through all 4 moments of the game.

Attacking:

• In build up, 2 wing backs drop deep and also inside forwards come inside to collect. This gives a 4v3 central overload

• Haaland stays high to strecth field and create space for midfielders to get on the ball

• Dortmund look to play through the opposition due to central overloads

• Once in oppositions third focus is on fast combination play and penetrating man runs behind

• Haaland stays opposite side to the ball to allow runner to come in

• At least 3 players attacking crosses

Transition to defend

• Instant pressure smothering ball carrier

• Delay-Deny space

Defending

• Mix of high presure (Schalke keeper struggled with kicking)

• Mid block when they needed to slow down

• 1541 shape where central lanes denies, oposition forced wide

• On throw ins, completely congested the side (numerical advantage)

Transition to attack

• Fast forward play when possible

• Ball recycled and switched when forward option not on

• Good decision making of when to speed up vs slow down

• Devastating finishing

An incredible performance from Dortmund, granted the opposition was poor but Lucien Favre has developed a team with a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities. Exciting to watch!