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UEFA
Champions League: Borussia Dortmund vs Newcastle United
Kickoff
Time: 2023-11-08 01:45(HKT)
Source: REUTERS/WOLFGANG
RATTAY
In the
Bundesliga last weekend, Borussia Dortmund suffered a 0-4 home defeat against
Bayern Munich. This loss not only marked their first defeat in the league but
also had a negative impact on their morale. Despite Dortmund’s seemingly good
performance this season, they are currently facing a significant issue. The
departure of Jude Bellingham has resulted in a noticeable decline in Dortmund’s
midfield organisation ability. While Dortmund boast the second-highest ball
possession rate in the Bundesliga, their number of passes and passing success
rate are relatively low. On the other hand, they rank first in the league for
the number of long passes attempted. The weakening of midfield control has led
to a disconnection between Dortmund’s defensive and offensive lines. They often
find themselves circulating the ball in the backcourt for extended periods
without being able to effectively involve the midfielders. As a result, they
are forced to resort to long-range shots. In high-intensity matches and crucial
encounters, such as battles in the midfield or aggressive pressing in the
opponent’s half, the inability to build up play from the back becomes a
significant obstacle. If Dortmund struggles to transition the ball out of their
own half, it becomes increasingly challenging for them to organise effective
offensive plays.
Source:
REUTERS/LEE SMITH
Newcastle
United achieved a 1-0 home victory against Arsenal in the Premier League last
weekend, albeit in a somewhat unattractive manner. Despite the scrappy nature
of the game, the Magpies emerged as winners. This season, Newcastle have built
upon their impressive performance from the previous season and continued to
excel. They have managed to maintain a strong record despite competing on multiple
tournaments. Newcastle possesses a potent attacking force while maintaining a
solid defensive line. In the 11 rounds of the Premier League, they have scored
a total of 27 goals and conceded only 11. This remarkable performance in both
offensive and defensive aspects ranks them highly in the Premier League.
Newcastle’s tactical approach emphasises high pressure and pressing, executing
forward pressing attacks through robust physical confrontations. When in
possession, they swiftly switch play from both wings, forming an inverted
triangle shape. Without the ball, the Magpies rely on their tall defenders to
provide solid defensive cover from behind.
While
Dortmund emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over Newcastle in the first leg, the
statistics of the game indicated that Dortmund faced significant challenges.
Newcastle showcased strength in their front, midfield, and defensive lines,
boasting strong physicality that proved difficult for Dortmund to contend with.
Considering the recent performances of both teams, Newcastle’s convincing
victories over formidable opponents, make it reasonable to be optimistic about
their ability to secure points in this hypothetical match.
Borussia
Dortmund’s Last 5 Game: LWDWW
23-11-05
Borussia Dortmund 0-4 Bayern Munich
23-11-02
Borussia Dortmund 1-0 Hoffenheim
23-10-29
Eintracht Frankfurt 3-3 Borussia Dortmund
23-10-26
Newcastle United 0-1 Borussia Dortmund
23-10-21
Borussia Dortmund 1-0 Werder Bremen
Newcastle
United’s Last 5 Games: WWDLW
23-11-05
Newcastle United 1-0 Arsenal
23-11-02
Manchester United 0-3 Newcastle United
23-10-29
Wolves 2-2 Newcastle United
23-10-26
Newcastle United 0-1 Borussia Dortmund
23-10-21
Newcastle United 4-0 Crystal Palace
Head To Head
Record:
23-10-26
Newcastle United 0-1 Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: Newcastle United to win or Draw