Editor’s Note: This is the debut article of one of our new writers, Elias Kokinos! Please everyone give him a warm welcome.

Borussia Dortmund advance, but as ever, they made sure to add their own complications along the way. A strong first half, a shaky second, and just enough to get over the line.

Today’s match between Dortmund and Monterrey followed a pattern. Dortmund started with intent, moving the ball quickly, pressing well, and controlling the game. The first half showed what this side can look like when they stay focused. Serhou Guirassy led the way, scoring twice with the kind of calm finishing we’ve been desperate for. His movement and link-up play gave Monterrey plenty to think about, and Adeyemi’s direct running added another layer of threat. For 45 minutes, Dortmund looked confident, purposeful, and largely in control.

Then came the second half, and the familiar tendency to let the opponent back into it. It’s as if the team thought the job was done and decided to test their own nerves. The passing lost its edge, the pressing became disjointed, and Monterrey grew into the match. Their goal, of course, had a certain inevitability about it. If there’s a soft goal to concede, Dortmund will find a way. Most of Monterrey’s possession wasn’t especially dangerous, but we helped make it uncomfortable by dropping off and losing composure in key moments.

The closing stages were more stressful than they had any right to be. A few odd substitutions did little to settle things,the decision to keep playing a high line with tired legs at the back added unnecessary risk, and Sergio Ramos nearly turned back the clock with a heartbreaking header. But in the end, the result is what matters — and we’re through. Just about.

Serhou Guirassy

A proper centre-forward’s performance. Two well-taken goals, smart movement, and a willingness to drop deep when the team needed a link. Led the line with maturity and set the tone for our best attacking moments.

Karim Adeyemi

One of the few who kept asking questions of Monterrey throughout. His runs in behind caused problems, and his two assists were well deserved. Played with intent and gave us an outlet when things got scrappy.

Gregor Kobel

Did what Kobel always seems to do, kept us in it when the game started slipping away. Handled Monterrey’s fiery ball-striking with confidence and composure. A steadying presence on a night that needed one.

Yan Couto

Thrown into a makeshift midfield role and quietly went about bringing some order to the chaos. Did the simple things well, helped provide balance, and didn’t look out of place in unfamiliar territory.

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