In a riveting showdown between Borussia Dortmund and Sporting CP, the stage is set for a battle of contrasting fortunes in both domestic and European competitions. As the two teams prepare to face off, Dortmund holds a commanding 3-0 lead on aggregate after securing a victory in the first leg in Lisbon. However, their current struggles in the Bundesliga, where they are positioned 11th, present a stark dichotomy to their European success.
Sporting CP, on the other hand, finds themselves at the summit of their league, leading by two points ahead of Benfica. Despite their strong domestic form, their performance in the Champions League has been lackluster. The absence of a standout performance from Viktor Gyokeres could potentially spell an early exit for Sporting, squandering their initial status as a dark horse for a deep run in the competition.
Storylines
**Borussia Dortmund**: Despite their advantage from the first leg, Dortmund cannot afford to be complacent. Their defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed throughout the season, conceding 38 goals in just 22 Bundesliga matches. Sporting, having missed key opportunities in the previous encounter, will undoubtedly come out strong, aiming to secure an early goal that could shift the momentum of the tie. While Dortmund’s Champions League form has been more promising, their defensive frailties remain a cause for concern.
Predicted XI for Borussia Dortmund: Gregor Kobel, Daniel Svensson, Nico Schlotterbeck, Emre Can, Julian Ryerson, Marcel Sabitzer, Pascal Gross, Karim Adeyemi, Julian Brandt, Jamie Gittens, Serhou Guirassy
**Sporting CP**: Despite trailing by three goals, Sporting CP finds themselves in a position where expectations are lowered, potentially alleviating some of the pressure. The onus is on Dortmund to see out the tie, while a quick goal from Sporting could inject a sense of unease in Signal Iduna Park. However, any goal from Dortmund would only solidify their current advantage, making it a daunting task for Sporting to mount a comeback.
Predicted XI for Sporting CP: Rui Silva, Matheus, Goncalo Inacio, Ousmane Diomande, Ivan Fresneda, Maxi Araujo, Trincao, Geovany Quenda, Viktor Gyokeres
Prediction
As the two teams prepare to clash, Sporting is expected to put up a fight. However, with Dortmund only needing a goal to all but seal their place in the last 16 of the Champions League, the odds are heavily stacked in favor of the Germans.
Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 2, Sporting CP 1.
