Last stand or group glory? Dortmund face Ulsan test | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund vs Ulsan Hyundai FC: Club World Cup Prediction and Pre-Match Analysis

Context: Group Stage Stakes and Form

Borussia Dortmund face Ulsan Hyundai FC in their final Group F fixture at the FIFA Club World Cup, with the German side under pressure to secure progression to the knockout stages. Dortmund sit second in the group with four points and must avoid defeat to guarantee qualification, while Ulsan have already been eliminated, having lost both of their previous matches. The Korean club are playing for pride and the opportunity to restore some reputation on the international stage.

Dortmund have found consistency in recent weeks, currently unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions. Their attack has been productive, scoring 24 goals in their last eight games and winning seven times in that span. The 4-3 win over Mamelodi Sundowns in their last match highlighted both attacking sharpness—Serhou Guirassy and Julian Brandt remain key threats—and ongoing defensive vulnerabilities.

Ulsan Hyundai’s recent run has contrasted sharply. After significant squad turnover in 2025, they have struggled for rhythm and form, suffering three consecutive defeats and conceding 11 goals in their last five matches. Their elimination was confirmed after letting a halftime lead slip in a 4-2 defeat to Fluminense. Erick Farias, a recent arrival, has contributed goals, but defensive instability continues to undermine their performances.

Tactical News and Expected Lineups

Dortmund, led by coach Niko Kovač, are expected to field their usual 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation, relying on Guirassy up front with Brandt and Jobe Bellingham providing support. Several regulars—Emre Can, Nico Schlotterbeck, Pascal Groß, and Felix Nmecha—are absent through injury, so rotation is likely, but attacking intent will remain.

For Ulsan, coach Kim Pan-Gon may opt for a reactive game plan. With Um Won-Sang a doubt after an injury in the last match, attacking responsibility could shift to Farias and Matías Lacava. The defensive line, featuring experienced figures like Kim Young-Gwon, will aim to absorb pressure and transition quickly, but previous Club World Cup outings suggest Dortmund will find opportunities.

Motivation and External Factors

While qualification is on the line for Dortmund, Ulsan’s primary motivation is pride and a substantial financial bonus for a win. The match is being held in the United States, with both teams attracting international attention. Dortmund’s strong Korean following and recent managerial change—Niko Kovač has steadied the squad since taking over this year—add further layers to the atmosphere and narrative.

Prediction: Key Insights and Scoreline

With both teams having undergone major changes in 2025, Dortmund’s depth, recent cohesion, and attacking firepower give them a clear edge. Ulsan’s attacking weapons are capable of producing moments on the counter, but their defensive issues and lack of form are likely to be exploited by a motivated Dortmund side needing at least a draw to advance.

Predicted Score: Borussia Dortmund 3 - 1 Ulsan Hyundai FC