Late drama! Gladbach stun Dortmund to seal Bundesliga safety | OneFootball

It’s a fixture steeped in history, but in recent years Borussia Dortmund have often had the upper hand in the “Battle of the Borussias.” Coming into this encounter, Niko Kovač’s side were aiming to strengthen their hold on second place, while Borussia Mönchengladbach hovered nervously above the relegation scrap.

The opening stages reflected the tension surrounding both teams’ objectives. For much of the first 20 minutes, the game was defined by a physical midfield battle, with neither side able to create clear-cut opportunities.

The match sprang to life midway through the half. In the 25th minute, Nico Elvedi thought he had given Gladbach the lead with a well-taken volley following a free kick. However, celebrations were cut short as the goal was ruled out for offside.

That moment seemed to galvanise the hosts. Despite Dortmund’s status as favourites, it was Gladbach who began to dictate the tempo. The Foals looked sharper and more energetic, repeatedly finding space and testing Dortmund’s defensive line.

Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel was called into action on multiple occasions, producing two crucial saves to keep Dortmund level. His interventions proved vital as Gladbach continued to press for an opener.

While Gladbach appeared the fresher and more dangerous side, their inability to convert chances meant the scoreline remained unchanged - 0-0 at half-time.

The second half began with a quicker tempo. In the 48th minute, Franck Honorat delivered a dangerous ball from the right, finding Haris Tabaković in a promising position, but his effort drifted narrowly wide.

Dortmund emerged from the break with more control and improved structure, yet they struggled to turn possession into genuine chances. As the half wore on, it was still the hosts who looked more likely to strike decisively.

That decisive moment finally arrived in the 88th minute. Rocco Reitz threaded a superb through ball into the path of Tabaković, who kept his composure to slot home what looked like the winner.

Although the assistant’s flag initially ruled the goal out, VAR intervened and overturned the decision - confirming a dramatic late breakthrough for Gladbach.

It was a goal that not only decided the match but also secured Gladbach’s Bundesliga safety, marking a huge moment in their season. For Dortmund, it was a frustrating evening of missed opportunities and a late collapse in concentration.

Final score: Borussia Mönchengladbach 1-0 Borussia Dortmund