Borussia Dortmund boosted by key player’s return ahead of Barcelona second leg | OneFootball

Very few are betting against Barcelona as they approach the second-leg tie against Borussia Dortmund.

The Catalans are coming on the back of a stunning 4-0 win in the first leg, meaning Dortmund would need to score at least five goals at Signal Iduna Park in order to have any chance of going through.

While the task will be next to impossible for Dortmund, the club will be boosted by the return of one key player in the form of Pascal Gross.

Pascal Gross returns for the second leg

Gross was not present in the first-leg tie due to a suspension, which ultimately served as a massive blow for Dortmund as they struggled to create anything meaningful going forward.

This time around, Gross’ ability from set pieces coupled with his vision and chance creation could prove to be critical for Dortmund as they look to make use of spaces left behind by the Barcelona defenders.

Gross’ chance creation could be key for Dortmund this week (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

It must be noted that Gross is Dortmund’s highest assist provider this season with a total of 11 assists in all competitions.

Aside from his creative abilities, Gross is known for his tactical astuteness. At the age of 34, the German international has ample experience at the highest level of football and is, therefore, well aware of the mechanism of breaking down a high defensive line.

Gross’ pass-making abilities will also be complemented by Dortmund’s speedy wingers such as Karim Adeyemi and Jamie Bynoe Gittens.

Therefore, Barcelona must remain cautious and mark Gross tightly if they are to nullify Dortmund’s chance creation.

Given Barça’s stretched defence, even one goal can potentially open the floodgates for the away team – something coach Hansi Flick will be keen on avoiding.