Bochum vs. Borussia Dortmund Preview This Week

11 months ago

As the football fervor sweeps through Germany, Borussia Dortmund takes center stage, determined to uphold their flawless record in the 2023/24 season. A pivotal clash against local rivals Bochum awaits, setting the stage for a battle of passion and prowess.

You are reading Bochum vs. Borussia Dortmund Preview This Week on ULSFootball. 

Rising Pressure on Bochum as Dortmund Looms

The spotlight falls on Bochum as they brace themselves for a formidable challenge against title contenders Borussia Dortmund. A rocky start to the season, marred by defeats and eliminations, raises the stakes for Thomas Letsch's side, urging them to rally and reclaim their lost footing.

In a bid to surge forward, Bochum welcomes the return of Freiburg-owned defender Keven Schlotterbeck, whose impact is poised to reverberate across the field. Additionally, tactical choices loom large as Letsch contemplates the blend of steel and silk in his midfield, with the versatile Patrick Osterhage and Japan's Takuma Asano in the fray.

Dortmund's Bittersweet Memories and Unwavering Ascension

For Dortmund, memories of their previous visit to Bochum remain etched in a tale of both triumph and despair. The 1-1 draw, a season's end away, weighed heavily on their title aspirations. Yet, this resilient squad under the guidance of Edin Terzic has charted an upward trajectory, embracing victories in pre-season, DFB Cup, and Bundesliga.

In the shadows of success, Terzic's concern over performance comes to the forefront. While celebrating the late-game heroics of Donyell Malen that secured them a win against Cologne, Terzic acknowledges the need for consistency. Striking a balance between victory and refined play becomes a pivotal challenge for the head coach.

Anticipated Lineup Shifts and Key Players

As the 'little Revierderby' beckons, Emre Can and Sebastien Haller gear up to lead Dortmund's charge, despite their second-half withdrawal in the previous match. The dynamic Karim Adeyemi may replace Marco Reus, presenting a fresh perspective on the attacking front.

Intriguing statistics underscore the upcoming clash. Bochum's Felix Passlack, once part of Dortmund's roster, faces his former club for the first time. Bochum's quest for redemption is bolstered by their unbeaten home record against Dortmund. However, the Ruhr neighbors' victory drought at home extends back to 2007, hinting at the uphill battle they face.

Borussia Dortmund's recent form paints a picture of supremacy, marked by an unbeaten streak and a league record for consecutive games without a goalless draw. Their league-best performance continues to amaze, with an impressive haul of 49 points out of a possible 60 in the year 2023.

As the stage is set for an electric encounter, the narratives of both teams intertwine, promising a clash that will not only shape their immediate future but also etch itself in the annals of their storied rivalry.

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Possible Lineups:

• Bochum: Riemann - Masovic, Ordets, K. Schlotterbeck - Passlack, Osterhage, Losilla (c), Stöger, Wittek - Hofmann, Antwi-Adjei

Out: Kwarteng (groin), Mousset (Achilles), Tolba (knee)
Doubtful: Bero (muscular), Oermann (groin)
Coach: Thomas Letsch

• Dortmund: Kobel - Ryerson, Süle, Hummels, Bensebaini - Sabitzer, Can (c) - Malen, Brandt, Adeyemi - Haller

Out: Duranville (thigh), Meunier (hamstring), Morey (muscular), Reyna (foot)
Doubtful: -
Coach: Edin Terzic