Was it really reasonable to talk about a title race between the two giants of the Bundesliga? Only six points separated the Bavarians and the Borussians before kickoff — now the nine-point gap feels almost decisive for Dortmund.
This is what you call losing everything in a week. After the traumatic defeat against Atalanta BC, Dortmund likely saw their title hopes fade against a Bayern side that showed exceptional character to win this match.
Fueled by the desire to respond in front of their home crowd, Dortmund had all the ingredients to trouble Bayern. And it was from one of their strengths that they struck first: a corner kick finished by a towering header from Nico Schlotterbeck. His effort left Jonas Urbig with no chance.
Despite the exit of Emre Can and with the unfortunate hero of Bergamo, Ramy Bensebaini, trying to steady the ship, Dortmund held onto their lead.
But as has often been the case this season — and reflecting the many points dropped late — Dortmund faded physically. Bayern imposed their control of possession, and the world’s best number nine, Harry Kane, stepped into the spotlight. He finished off a magnificent team move before calmly converting a penalty won by Michael Olise.
Dortmund thought they had equalized through Daniel Svensson, again from a corner. But the champion’s mentality embodied by Bayern proved stronger, and Joshua Kimmich smashed a volley into the net to seal the victory.
This was a champion’s win for a Bayern side that never gave up.