Dortmund in a good position to reach the Champions League quarter-final after the 2:2 draw in the first leg of the last 16. Dortmund equalized after a surprising Donetsk lead just before half-time. Donetsk scored again after a bad defensive mistake, but Matt Hummels rewarded Dortmund with the equalizer in the closing stage.
Donetsk, who sold Brazilian superstar Willian in the winter transfer window to Anzhi Makhachkala, changed there starting line-up compared to the 0-1 defeat against Juventus and began with Chygrynskyy, Hübschman, Taison and Luiz Adriano. BVB coach Jürgen Klopp started with Schmelzer and Bender. Sahin and defender Subotic started from the bench.
Dortmund started very concentrated, defended very deep and left no space for Donetsk. Blasczcykowski had the first shots on goal for Borussia, but nothing dangerous. Dortmund knew they had to be disciplined since Donetsk is known for there dangerous counter attacks. Hummels hit the bar in the 17th minute and Reus tested Keeper Pyatov with a solo run just minutes later. A free-kick brought the flattering lead for Donetsk: Srna curled a free kick from 20 yards over the wall and Dortmund keeper Weidenfeller didn’t look good – 1:0 Donetsk in the 32st minute. Dortmund intensified their offensive efforts and created good chances through Blaszczykowski (35th, 39th). However, Lewandowski scored the equalizer after a Goetze cross and and the Pole finished from seven yards into the corner (41st minute).
Donetsk dominated the beginning of the second half without creating any significant chances. However, in the 68th minute, Donetsk scored out of nowhere – Hummels underestimated a long ball and Costa with a beautiful side volley finish from 14 yards – 2:1 Donesk. Dortmund played with more pressure now and Lewandowski missed with another volley only minutes later. Hummels finished a beautiful header in the 87th minute after a Schmelzer corner and secured the 2:2 draw.
Dortmund could have easily won the game, but they will be happy with the draw considering the fact that they came from behind twice. The second leg will be played on March 5th at the Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund.
