Was that his breakout game? HSV star finally finds his feet this season! | OneFootball

The short-term injury of Daniel Elfadli forced Merlin Polzin to improvise against BVB. And his replacement did a decent job.

Jordan Torunarigha had to wait a long time for his opportunity in the Bundesliga, but against Borussia Dortmund, he seized it immediately. In the 1-1 draw against the Champions League participant, the summer newcomer finally showed why HSV brought him from KAA Gent. After weeks full of setbacks, injuries, and sporting disappointments, the 28-year-old made a remarkable comeback and left a lasting impression.

Originally, Daniel Elfadli was supposed to function as the left part of the back three as usual. However, his short-term absence due to an injury in the final training session suddenly opened the door for Torunarigha. It was an opportunity he used with remarkable maturity and stability.

Early on, he cleared a dangerous situation against Daniel Svensson, later blocking a major chance from Carney Chukwuemeka. With strong tackling, calmness on the ball, and clear communication, he was a reliable anchor in HSV's defense, which stood surprisingly stable against Dortmund and allowed only one shot on their goal. Torunarigha himself made a good impression with only a few minor exceptions.

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Polzin: Torunarigha "enormously important" for HSV

"He was also a reason why we allowed relatively few major chances," praised coach Merlin Polzin his protégé. Left-back Miro Muheim was also impressed: "When someone comes in after such a long time and plays like that right away, it's enormously important for us."

For Torunarigha, this performance could be far more than just a solid comeback. Perhaps, after several months of preparation, it was his breakthrough in Hamburg. After a difficult preparation with many shaky test matches and tough weeks on the bench, he now seems physically fit and mentally ready.

The sporting renaissance of the former Hertha player comes at the perfect time. Because: Regular player Elfadli will not be available to HSV even after the upcoming international break. So, beyond the BVB game, Torunarigha is likely to remain in demand at Volkspark.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.