Players Rated from Borussia Dortmund’s Stalemate against FC Freiburg

Here’s how Dortmund players fared in the 0-0 draw with Freiburg at the weekend-

Burki-7

Another clean sheet for the ex-Freiburg keeper, who didn’t have much to do, apart from making a fine save from Tim Kleindienst’s scuffed effort when sent through on goal.

Piszczek- 5.5

Didn’t offer too much in attack, apart from making a couple of good runs down the right which came to nothing. Wasn’t tested often in defence, and was culpable of missing a good chance when he steered his header well wide of the goal in the 81st minute.

Bartra- 6

Felt a muscle strain and was taken off in the 18th minute as a precautionary measure. Fans would be hoping that he gets fit for the upcoming UCL game against Tottenham this week.

Sokratis- 5

The centre-back spent more time in the opposition’s half than in his own half, which is probably enough to suggest what kind of a contest this was. However, none of his five shots from distance were on target, which proved to be counterproductive many times.

Schmelzer- 6

Made a comeback after a long duration on the sidelines, but his return would only last for about 28 minutes as Yoric Ravet’s poor challenge twisted his ankle in an awkward way. The Freiburg man got a red-card for his tackle, and the Dortmund captain will now be forced to remain out of any action for at least the next six weeks.

Sahin- 5

Has had a brilliant start to the season, but was unable to make any impact here. Many of his usual through balls went astray, and he couldn’t find any way to get his team past the Freiburg defence.

Castro- 5.5

Was the only dangerous BVB player in the first half, whose crosses menaced the opposition. However, his overall performance was a disappointment as he’s usually capable of undoing teams which like to sit back and defend.

Gotze- 6.5

The only creative player throughout the match. His movement and passes were intelligent, and he nearly got an assist but was left frustrated after Philipp’s shot flew over the bar.

Philipp- 5.5

Didn’t contribute much in attack, but tracked back really well. He was once again very close to his first BVB goal, but it’s only a matter of time before he starts scoring consistently. Needs a bit of polishing on his finishing though.

Pulisic- 5

Was invisible for the most part of the match, and his shot on the turn in the second half was probably his side’s best chance. Needs to be a bit more consistent, but what else can you expect from an 18-year old?

Aubameyang- 5

Didn’t get any good service, and so he couldn’t do anything much. Looked to have bagged a winner in the 80th minute but the referee awarded a free-kick to the opposition.

SUBSTITUTES

Oprak- 5.5

Replaced the injured Bartra. Didn’t have too much to do, apart from preventing a swift counter-attack which could’ve proved to be dangerous.

Zagadou- 5.5

Replaced the injured Schmelzer. Wasn’t at his usual attacking best. Will surely start the UCL game this week with Schmelzer out for a long time.

Yarmolenko- NA

Made his debut for BVB but couldn’t do anything much of note in ten minutes apart from a mis-hit cross.