Three Takeaways from Dortmund's lifeless 1-0 Bundesliga home defeat to Augsburg | OneFootball

Following a disappointing result in the Champions League against Lille, leaving BVB needing to win on their away trip, today was a great chance to not only find some spirit and fight ahead of the game, but also to create comfortable separation in the table, which would've left Dortmund six points ahead of 11th (Augsburg) and eight ahead of 12th (Werder) had the result been a victory. Yet, they managed to make matters worse ahead of the clash in Lille.

The first-half showed no real signs of life, before or after Augsburg's opener. Dortmund's lack of offensive influence and identity proved a major problem against a stern Augsburg side who were set up primarily in a 5-2-3. Their mid-block and constant running left Dortmund helpless at breaking them down. Then Wolf's delightful cross was met by a fantastic header by Gouweleeuw, the opener was found. Dortmund did a horrible job at responding, and the half came to an end.

The second-half, following no immediate changes from Kovač, was just as sloppy and lackadaisical. There was little to no threat in attacks, and while there was more control and Augsburg started dropping deeper, this proved ineffective for BVB, who were desperate to find space in behind, when it clearly was never there. Brandt's tap-in from a corner was overruled for offside, almost taunting Dortmund. Following some questionable changes, and a hopeful switch of approach, there was some more threat, but still no quality. Then it was simply too late.

Overall, it was a dreadful and truly shameful performance, that lacked the character and emotion that is embedded in this club. Kovač and the players have much to ponder over these next days as they prepare for the second leg against Lille. They must know that something has got to change, and as soon as possible. Here are my three takeaways from the game: