Borussia Dortmund claimed a crucial 1-0 home victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final clash on Wednesday, courtesy of Niclas Fuellkrug’s decisive goal.
In their quest for a return to the final for the first time since 2013, Dortmund displayed resilience and determination, overpowering their heavily favoured opponents.
Fuellkrug, making his Champions League debut at the age of 31, capitalised on a lofted pass from centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck in the 36th minute, unleashing a powerful low shot into the left corner of the net.
Despite PSG, led by Kylian Mbappe, hitting the post twice early in the second half, Dortmund’s defence stood firm to deny their attempts to equalise.
Having already faced PSG twice in the group stage this season, with a loss and a draw, Dortmund can now dare to dream of a return to Wembley, eleven years after their last Champions League final appearance.
While PSG will be disappointed with the result, they remain confident of overturning the deficit in the return leg at home next week, especially considering their dominance over Dortmund at their home ground earlier in the season.
Dortmund manager Edin Terzic acknowledged PSG’s strength, describing them as a team “built to win the Champions League” following the Qatari takeover a decade ago.
The match highlighted the contrast between PSG’s global superstar Mbappe and Dortmund’s journeyman striker Fuellkrug, who was playing in the second division just two years ago.
Backed by an enthusiastic home crowd, Dortmund dominated the early stages, with Jadon Sancho particularly impressive on the right flank.
Despite Marcel Sabitzer’s early chance, Dortmund had to wait until the 36th minute for Fuellkrug to break the deadlock with a clinical finish.
PSG struggled to create clear opportunities in the first half, failing to register a shot on target.
After the break, PSG intensified their efforts, hitting the woodwork twice, but Dortmund’s defence held firm. Despite PSG’s late surge, Dortmund held on to their lead, securing a vital victory and ensuring an extra Champions League place for Germany next season, regardless of the outcome of the tournament.