Five talking points from the Mainz vs Dortmund game

Borussia Dortmund took all three points in a 0-2 victory against Thomas Tuchel’s old team, FSV Mainz 05 to end their three game winless streak. The victory sees them cut Bayern Munich;’s lead at the top to 4 points. Here are some of the major takeaways from the match

1.Tuchel’s strategy still needs a defensive remodel

For a mid table side like Mainz, an elite football club should be able to control the entire game. But for the most parts of the match, it looked like a match of equals and the Mainz side was able to create some well cut out chances. The defensive mixups of Die Borrussen were the cause of the heavy defeat against Bayern before the international break and were also visible in today’s game. It was the performance of Roman Burki which made it seem less leaky.

2. Dortmund’s high profile front four has some rusty elements

The fornt four of Mkhitariyan, Kagawa, Reus and Aubameyang still weren’t upto the mark and in sync as both the goals came out of defensive blunders from the Mainz players. Reus’ missed penalty showed that he still is not back to his usual self even though his finish was definitely good for the first goal. Kagawa also missed a sitter for Dortmund and Mkhtariyan’s game wasn’t as sharp as it could have been. Aubameyang could manage 4 shots on goal in his 80 odd minutes on the pitch but he couldn’t score which is surely something for his coach to think about.

3. Loris Karius had a glorious spot kick, again!

The Mainz goalkeeper has now let only 2 of the last 8 spot kicks against him go in, which by normal standards is quite an outstanding achievement. Karius stopped a right footed shot from Marco Reus in the 47 minute from a penalty which was won by Aubameyang. The goalkeeper also stopped a Mueller penalty in gameweek 7. He keeps on adding big names to his ‘Penalties-Saved’ list and may earn a place in Joachim Low’s plans in a way similar to Tim Krul for Louis van Gaal.

4. Joo-Ho Park did not have a game to remember

Filled with mistakes, the South Korean had little to take away from his performance in this match. Offensively or defensively, his performance was below par. He also missed an almost one on one chance in the dying minutes of the match which summed up his performance. Dortmund need to replace him with someone better on the left flank if they are to challenge for silverware this season.

5. Gundogan and Weigl have formed a solid midfield pair

The duo were the standout performers for the Dortmund side in today’s fixture as they created some decent chances and also contributed defensively. Julian Weigl is proving to be a solid signing for Thomas Tuchel as his contribution was a beauty to watch. His movements and anticipation were good and his passing also was a joy to witness. At such a young age, his performance shows maturity, a quality which will surely earn him his senior side call up soon.