Dortmund on the brink: pride or upset in Group F finale? | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund vs Ulsan Hyundai FC: Prediction and Analysis

Group F Showdown: Stakes and Setting

Borussia Dortmund and Ulsan Hyundai FC face off on June 25 at TQL Stadium in the final match of Group F in the FIFA Club World Cup. The backdrop is clear: Dortmund need at least a draw to guarantee progression to the round of 16, while Ulsan have already been eliminated after two defeats but arrive with pride and a point to prove.

Borussia Dortmund: Form, Lineup, and Injuries

Under Niko Kovač, Dortmund have picked up momentum after a managerial transition earlier this year. Undefeated in their last nine matches and with seven wins in their previous eight, they have found a consistent rhythm, especially in attack. Serhou Guirassy’s 19 goals in 29 appearances and the creative output of Julian Brandt (5 goals, 8 assists) stand out, supported by new faces like Yan Couto and Daniel Svensson, both of whom have swiftly adapted to starting roles.

Dortmund, however, face this game without several midfield regulars: Emre Can, Nico Schlotterbeck, Pascal Groß, and Felix Nmecha are all unavailable. Jobe Bellingham, a recent arrival, is expected to play a larger role in the absence of these key players. The side’s 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 shape remains, with Guirassy leading the line.

Recent results show proficiency in attack but some defensive vulnerability, as seen in their 4-3 win over Mamelodi Sundowns. Still, their attacking depth—Brandt, Guirassy, and Bellingham—gives them the tools to control the match.

Ulsan Hyundai FC: Recent Struggles and Squad Turnover

Ulsan Hyundai, coached by Kim Pan-Gon, reach this fixture on the back of three straight losses, conceding 11 goals in their last five outings. The year has seen radical overhaul, with a stream of new arrivals, including Erick Farias—who has scored twice in this tournament already. Ulsan’s defense, despite featuring experienced names like Kim Young-Gwon, has struggled against higher-level opposition.

The attack typically leans on Farias and, when fit, Um Won-Sang. However, Um remains a doubt after picking up an injury against Fluminense. Ulsan are likely to shape up defensively, aiming to contain Dortmund and strike on the counter, possibly with Matías Lacava stepping in if Um remains sidelined.

Motivation now centers on restoring club pride and securing a financial bonus, with Korean media calling for a strong performance against European opposition.

Tactical Picture and Key Dynamics

Expect Dortmund to dominate possession and seek width, leveraging Brandt and Bellingham’s creativity behind Guirassy. Ulsan’s best hopes likely come through quick transitions, with Farias providing a direct goal threat. Defensive absences and recent form point to Dortmund conceding opportunities, but Ulsan’s own defensive record suggests they may struggle to hold out over 90 minutes.

Match Prediction

Dortmund’s firepower and cohesion give them the upper hand against an Ulsan side still searching for balance after significant squad changes. Ulsan will have moments on the break, but Dortmund’s need for a result and their recent attacking form make them clear favorites to secure progression.

Predicted Score: Borussia Dortmund 3 - 1 Ulsan Hyundai FC