Borussia Dortmund: story so far, key players, why they can win
Monday, April 3, 2017
Article summary
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gets the headlines but a youthful Borussia Dortmund side's chief strength is their depth and the fact that everyone carries a goal threat.
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Story so far: Dortmund
It's not often Real Madrid are forced to settle for second best but, by winning Group F, Dortmund ensured they'd have to. A rare off day for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang coincided with a narrow defeat by Benfica in the first instalment of their last-16 tie, but the striker rediscovered his mojo with a hat-trick in the return. Next up: Monaco.
Record this season: P8 W5 D2 L1 F25 A10
Pivotal moment
Pivotal may be pushing it, but in terms of instilling belief look no further than Marco Reus's late equaliser at the Bernabéu on matchday six to complete a comeback from 2-0 down and seal top spot. Dortmund also grabbed a late 2-2 draw in the first meeting with the holders and that experience in adversity could prove invaluable.
Why this is Dortmund's year
Thomas Tuchel's team know where the goal is. They scored a group-stage record 21, including a remarkable 8-4 triumph over Legia. Aubameyang has seven to his name but Dortmund can score from anywhere, with 14 different players finding the net so far – a UEFA Champions League high. Whatever you score, we'll score more!
Main attraction: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – As you'd imagine of a man with glow-in-the-dark hair, Aubameyang is not backwards about coming forwards. His record of 112 goals in 177 games for Dortmund speaks volumes.
Rising star: Ousmane Dembélé – The 19-year-old winger has made a huge impact since his summer arrival from Rennes, supplying 16 assists and winning his first five caps for France. Aubameyang is the chief beneficiary.
Unsung hero: Julian Weigl – The midfielder, 21, has tempered some of the expansiveness that once marked his play in favour of a less flashy but more balanced approach. BVB are better for it.
Top Fantasy points scorers: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (41)