Chukwuemeka forced off early: injury worries overshadow BVB win | OneFootball

After the narrow friendly win against FC Tokyo, Borussia Dortmund is looking ahead with mixed feelings. Carney Chukwuemeka’s early substitution has given BVB fresh injury concerns.

Borussia Dortmund also came through the second friendly of their Japan tour successfully, but in the 1-0 win over FC Tokyo they once again had to deal with injury worries. Chukwuemeka’s early substitution in particular overshadowed the narrow victory at Tokyo’s National Stadium.

The midfielder apparently injured his right knee in the opening stages. After initially receiving treatment, the Austria international tried to continue. Shortly afterward, however, the game was over for the 22-year-old. Takato Yamamoto replaced him during the drinks break. It is still unclear whether Chukwuemeka has suffered a more serious injury or whether BVB were simply being cautious.

The concerns do not come as a surprise for BVB. Chukwuemeka had already struggled repeatedly with physical issues last season and missed several matches after his move from London. Even so, Dortmund have high hopes for the midfielder. Coach Niko Kovac recently emphasized to WAZ: “Compared to when he first arrived, Carney is in a completely different place. He has become much more solid and has added weight and physicality.”

BVB hopes for quick all-clear on Carney Chukwuemeka

At the same time, the coach made clear what is now expected of the Austrian: “Now in the second year, we expect them to step things up. But I’m convinced they will.” On the pitch, the game was decided after the break. New signing Fábio Silva scored the only goal of the match in the 54th minute, giving BVB their second win in four preseason friendlies.

Photo: IMAGO

The match had earlier been interrupted for around half an hour due to heavy rain and an official thunderstorm warning. After the restart, Dortmund largely controlled the game but failed to take further chances. Luca Reggiani also hit the post in the closing stages.

Shortly before the final whistle, another Dortmund player, Enzo Duarte, had to be substituted after picking up a knock. Borussia Dortmund now face their next major test: on August 9, Niko Kovac’s side will take on English champions Arsenal in London. Hopefully there will be an all-clear on Chukwuemeka by then.

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