Preparations on schedule: BVB women win friendly against second division side | OneFootball

The pre-season training weeks are well-planned: The BVB women started with intensive strength training sessions and getting used to the ball. In addition, a different tactical focus is being trained each week. “Last week, the focus was on counter-pressing,” emphasizes head coach Markus Högner, pleased that his players implemented what they had practiced in the friendly match.

On Sunday (1 February), the BVB women's team won their friendly match against Borussia Mönchengladbach at their training ground in Dortmund-Brackel. Counter-pressing was a key factor in their 3-1 victory against the second-division side. “We immediately put the opponent under pressure after losing possession, were well-structured, and remained flexible within our system,” said Markus Högner.

Markus Högner: “We took control of the game again”

As against Nuremberg, the BVB women initially lined up with a back three, created numerous scoring opportunities, and took a 2-0 lead into halftime thanks to two goals from Ann-Sophie Vogel. After the break, BVB made five substitutions and initially conceded a goal. Then the flexibility mentioned by the head coach came into play: “After switching back to our familiar back four, we regained control of the game. In the end, Emilia Pauls scored the third goal with a fantastic long-range shot,” said the head coach, praising his young players in particular for their performance in the second half..

New signing Marina Scholz, made her debut in the black and yellow jersey in the friendly win against Borussia Mönchengladbach. After just one training session, the 19-year-old was already able to display her technical skills in both the number 8 and 10 positions. Goalkeeper Laura van der Laan was not in the squad due to a hand injury. “She's training normally, not doing any specific goalkeeper training, but it's good for her to participate in the various drills with the ball at her feet,” explained Markus Högner. The number 1 goalkeeper is expected to return to training in two weeks.

This week's training will focus on revisiting and finalizing the defensive aspects of recent weeks. After a weekend off, the focus will shift to offense. Video analysis and individual discussions will help the coaching staff address these topics thoroughly. The head coach emphasised, “Our preparation has been truly terrific. We've been able to train in all kinds of weather so far, and it's a real pleasure to see the players so dedicated.” The Black and Yellows have four more friendlies scheduled before their Regionalliga West campaign resumes on March 15th against Borussia Mönchengladbach II.