Player Ratings: Sancho Dazzles in Dortmund’s Narrow Win Over PSG

In partnership with

EPL Index

·1 May 2024

Player Ratings: Sancho Dazzles in Dortmund’s Narrow Win Over PSG

Borussia Dortmund Takes a Slim Lead Over PSG in Champions League Clash

In an electrifying semi-final first leg at Signal Iduna Park, Borussia Dortmund carved out a slender lead against Paris Saint-Germain, setting the stage for a nail-biting return leg in Paris. The solo goal of the match, coming from Niclas Fullkrug, not only delivers a tactical advantage but also places immense pressure on PSG to overturn the deficit in the forthcoming encounter.

Sancho Shines Under the Limelight

Jadon Sancho was undoubtedly the protagonist of the evening, orchestrating Dortmund’s offensive play and keeping PSG’s defence on constant alert. His dynamic performance could be pivotal as Dortmund aim for their first Champions League final berth since 2013.

OneFootball Videos

From the kickoff, Dortmund’s infamous Yellow Wall was a cacophony of support, boosting the home side’s morale. The game opened with both teams displaying tight defensive formations, making it clear that breaking down the opposition would require something special.

Dortmund’s breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Nico Schlotterbeck’s exceptional long pass found Fullkrug, who exquisitely controlled the ball and fired it past Gianluigi Donnarumma. This moment of brilliance was a testament to Dortmund’s strategic depth and clinical execution.

PSG’s Missed Opportunities

Despite their best efforts, PSG’s night was marred by missed chances. Kylian Mbappe was particularly unfortunate, with two significant attempts striking the woodwork shortly after the restart. These moments could have changed the complexion of the match, highlighting the fine margins that often decide such high-stakes encounters.

Player Ratings

Borussia Dortmund

Gregor Kobel: 6/10
Julian Ryerson: 7.5/10
Mats Hummels: 8/10
Nico Schlotterbeck: 8/10
Ian Maatsen: 8/10
Marcel Sabitzer: 6.5/10
Emre Can: 7/10
Jadon Sancho: 8.5/10
Julian Brandt: 6/10
Karim Adeyemi: 7/10
Niclas Fullkrug: 9/10
Substitutes: Marco Reus – 6/10

Manager: Edin Terzic: 9/10

Paris Saint-Germain

Gianluigi Donnarumma: 6/10
Achraf Hakimi: 6.5/10
Marquinhos: 7.5/10
Lucas Hernandez: 5/10
Nuno Mendes: 4/10
Warren Zaire-Emery: 7/10
Vitinha: 6/10
Fabian Ruiz: 5/10
Ousmane Dembele: 4/10
Kylian Mbappe: 6/10
Bradley Barcola: 5/10
Substitutes: Lucas Beraldo – 5/10, Randal Kolo Muani – 5/10

Manager: Luis Enrique: 6/10

What Lies Ahead

Looking forward to the second leg, both teams have everything to play for. Dortmund will need to maintain their defensive solidity while exploiting any gaps in the PSG setup. On the other hand, PSG will have to sharpen their finishing and perhaps introduce some tactical tweaks to overcome Dortmund’s lead and reach the coveted final. The stage is set for an epic showdown in Paris.