After a series of three defeats at the start of 2025, Borussia Dortmund find themselves in a difficult position, with the encounter against Bologna potentially being the last chance for Nuri Şahin as head coach. It's evident that the inexperienced manager is struggling with his duties. However, Dortmund's attacking unit remains in full health, and their skill should be enough to secure success in Italy.
Since late December, Bologna have not been defensively reliable, conceding eight goals in the past four Serie A rounds. On the other hand, they have netted 21 goals in their last 10 matches across all competitions, finding balance in their counter-attacking style. Over the weekend, Bologna comfortably dispatched Monza (3:1), creating 1.90 xG with 18 shots, as their attacking leader Riccardo Orsolini delivered a goal and an assist.
Despite an unconvincing spell of three losses, Borussia Dortmund have been active in creating chances at the opponent's goal (3.23 xG in their last 270 minutes in the Bundesliga). In the Champions League, the team's stats are among the best: they have scored 18 goals (the second-best attack in the competition), with Serhou Guirassy (6+2) and Jamie Gittens (4+0) among the top 15 scorers in the European contest. Both Dortmund leaders are expected to start on Tuesday.
Bologna no longer suffer from an excess of injuries and are capable of scoring against a struggling Borussia Dortmund side at home. The visitors are also keen to maintain their top-10 position, and Nuri Şahin still has a chance to turn things around.
