RasenBallsport Leipzig – Borussia Dortmund: Leipzig Score Four To Solidify Fourth (4-1)

Leipzig moved five points clear of Dortmund in fifth place, with a deserved 4-1 win over their top four rivals. The home team were superior to their opponents in numerous areas; and despite going a goal behind, it was a comfortable victory, helped by two goals either side of the half-time break.

Tactical analysis and match report by Nick Smoothy.

RasenBallsport Leipzig played host to Borussia Dortmund in Bundesliga Matchday 31. This clash was a meeting of fourth versus fifth in the league, with Marco Rose’s side holding a two point advantage over Edin Terzić’s team, prior to kick-off.

Ordinarily, a fixture with this plotline, at this stage of a campaign, would carry huge significance. However, the jeopardy level had been slightly reduced, thanks, in part, to Dortmund’s progression in the Champions League. Due to the strong performances of all German sides in European competition this season, there is a strong possibility that both of these clubs will qualify for Europe’s top club competition in 2024/25.

Form-wise, Leipzig have collected nineteen points from their past seven league fixtures. Their 2-1 away win against Heidenheim last weekend was their third victory in a row and they last tasted defeat at home at the end of January, in a 3-2 loss to Bayer Leverkusen.

Marco Rose made one change to his previous starting line-up, with Mohamed Simakan replacing Benjamin Henrichs at right back. Elsewhere, Péter Gulácsi was between the posts and Willi Orban, Castello Lukeba and David Raum made up the rest of the defense. Amadou Haidara and Xaver Schlager occupied central midfield whilst Xavi Simons and Dani Olmo looked to create for Lo . . .