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With the race for Champions League qualification on the line, every point matters . Borussia Dortmund left Bremen this evening with three points in hand, after a closely fought 2-1 win that required a resolute defensive effort to close the game out.
It was another game of two halves. In the first half of the game I was impressed at what seemed to be improved communication in the midfield and stronger link-up play in the build up. Dortmund didn?t just control possession, they were attacking too, and creating chances. The opener came from a rebound off a powerful Julian Brandt shot that was punched away by Michael Zetterer. Donyell Malen acrobatically kicked over his head and into the net in impressive style. The best part about the goal was that Dortmund didn't take their foot off the gas, instead pushing for a second. BVB?s efforts were rewarded through Jadon Sancho, who provided fans with a flashback goal reminiscent of his earlier Dortmund days. Then came the blemish, in the first half stoppage time, when Marcel Sabitzer was sent off for a dangerous challenge. I think the red card was justified and I?m pretty sure Sabitzer knew it was coming. Studs to the Achilles is a red, even if the challenge was unintentional. I think Marcel handled it very professionally.

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Felix Nmecha made his long-awaited return

The second half of this game should look familiar...