Borussia Dortmund is gearing up to face Villarreal in a friendly match at CASHPOINT Arena on Tuesday. The new coach of Dortmund, Nuri Sahin, is looking to familiarize his team with his tactical style before the new Bundesliga season kicks off. On the other hand, Villarreal is aiming to secure a return to European football in the upcoming La Liga campaign.
Dortmund’s previous season in the league was disappointing, especially after their loss to Real Madrid in the Champions League final. Despite a strong first half performance against Madrid, they were unable to secure a victory. The team finished fifth in the Bundesliga last season, a result that did not meet expectations.
The departure of former coach Edin Terzic led to Sahin taking over the managerial position. Under Sahin’s leadership, Dortmund showed a more adventurous style of play in their recent friendly against Cerezo Osaka, which they won 3-2.
Villarreal, on the other hand, finished eighth in the La Liga last season, which was below their usual standards. Manager Marcelino Garcia Toral has been working with the team since November 2023, aiming to improve their performance for the upcoming season.
In terms of team news, Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko is a player to watch, as he has been linked with a potential move to Villarreal. However, defender Yannik Luhrs is doubtful for the match due to an injury. Striker Alexander Sorloth will not be playing for Dortmund as he has signed with Atletico Madrid.
The possible starting lineups for the match could see Meyer, Ryerson, Sule, Meiser, Rothe; Kamara, Nmecha; Adeyemi, Brandt, Bynoe-Gittens; Haller for Dortmund and Conde; Femenia, Albiol, Navarro, Cardona; Pino, Comesana, Terrats, Parejo; Danjuma, Suarez for Villarreal.
In terms of prediction, Dortmund is favored to win the match 2-0, given their attacking style of play under Sahin’s leadership. Villarreal may struggle to convert their chances, especially without Sorloth in the lineup.
Overall, the match between Borussia Dortmund and Villarreal promises to be an exciting one, with both teams looking to showcase their skills and tactics ahead of the new season.