Bundesliga
Borussia Dortmund scored three quick goals in a clinical first half performance, weathering a Wolfsburg comeback attempt and a red card to claim a vital victory at the Volkswagen Arena.
Wolfsburg 1-3 Dortmund
Goals: 0-1 Malen 25’ (assist: Bensebaini), 0-2 Beier 28’ (assist: Brandt), 0-3 Brandt 30’ (assist: Beier), 1-3 Vavro 58’ (assist: Arnold)
Red card: Groß 62’
The final Bundesliga match of 2024 saw Borussia Dortmund secure a crucial 3-1 away victory against Wolfsburg at the Volkswagen Arena. The match was particularly significant for both teams, with Dortmund looking to improve their league position and the Wolves hoping to overtake their opponents in the table.
Dortmund started the match with intent, creating chances early on. In just the 2nd minute, Julian Brandt narrowly missed the target after good work from Donyell Malen and Maximilian Beier. The visitors continued to press, with Jamie Gittens causing problems for the Wolfsburg defence. Their persistence paid off in the 25th minute when Malen opened the scoring, finishing from close range from a Ramy Bensebaini corner.
Dortmund's lead was quickly doubled three minutes later when Brandt provided a superb through ball for Beier, who finished clinically past Kamil Grabara. The away side's dominance continued, and in the 30th minute, they struck again. This time, Beier turned provider, setting up Brandt who slotted home from the edge of the area to make it 3-0. This six-minute scoring spree left Wolfsburg stunned.
The second half saw a shift in momentum. Wolfsburg came out with renewed determination, and Lukas Nmecha nearly pulled one back in the 49th minute, only to be denied by a fine save from Gregor Kobel. The hosts' efforts were rewarded in the 58th minute when Denis Vavro headed home from a corner to make it 3-1. Wolfsburg's comeback hopes were further boosted in the 62nd minute when Dortmund's Pascal Groß received a straight red card for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. This incident changed the complexion of the game, with Wolfsburg pushing hard for more goals.
Despite being a man down, Dortmund showed resilience in defence. Wolfsburg created several chances, with Mohamed Amoura particularly lively, but they couldn't find a way past Kobel again. The visitors managed the game well in the closing stages, with Waldemar Anton, who replaced Malen after the red card, playing a crucial role in maintaining their defensive shape. The match ended with Die Schwarzgelben holding on for a vital 3-1 victory that sees them end the year on a high note.
Maximilian Beier was instrumental in Dortmund's victory, earning him the Player of the Match accolade. His goal in the 28th minute showcased his clinical finishing, while his assist for Brandt's goal demonstrated his vision and awareness. Beier's performance was not just about goals and assists; he was a constant threat to the Wolfsburg defence, making intelligent runs and creating space for his teammates. His work rate was exemplary, covering a significant distance during the match and contributing to both attack and defence.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Wolfsburg 1.38 - Dortmund 2.35
Fastest player: Jamie Gittens (BVB), 34.8 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 3-0 by Julian Brandt (BVB), 11 percent
Most pressed player: Jamie Gittens (BVB), 20 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Pascal Groß (BVB), +3.93
Fantasy Heroes: Julian Brandt (Borussia Dortmund, 349 Points), Denis Vavro (Wolfsburg, 246 Points), Maximilian Beier (Borussia Dortmund, 239 Points)