Dortmund vs Union Berlin: Clash of Styles in the Bundesliga

Borussia Dortmund and Union Berlin meet in a highly anticipated Bundesliga encounter, with both sides fielding exciting yet contrasting lineups that reflect their footballing philosophies.

Borussia Dortmund XI

(Kobel; Anselmino, Antón, Bensebaini; Couto, Brandt, Sabitzer, Svensson; Bellingham; Guirassy, Beier)

Edin Terzić’s Dortmund side looks set to combine youthful energy with tactical flexibility.

Defensive Setup: Kobel’s presence in goal offers stability, while the back three of Anselmino, Antón, and Bensebaini balances composure with aggression. Anselmino, a rising defensive talent, gets another big opportunity, while Bensebaini provides Bundesliga experience.
Midfield Control: With wide support from Couto and Svensson, Dortmund aim to stretch Union’s defensive block. Brandt and Sabitzer are tasked with dictating play, using their creativity and precision to unlock Union’s compact setup.
The Key Link – Bellingham: Stationed just behind the strikers, the England international remains Dortmund’s heartbeat. His ability to press, dribble, and distribute will be vital in breaking down Union’s lines.
Attack Force: Guirassy, in lethal form, is paired with Beier, who offers pace and sharp movement. The duo gives Dortmund a mix of physical presence and unpredictability in the final third.

Dortmund’s XI suggests an attacking, front-footed approach, built on fluid combinations and vertical runs.

Union Berlin XI

(Ronnow; Trimmel, Doekhi, Querfeld, Rothe, Skov; Kral, Khedira, Haberer; Ilic, Ansah)

Urs Fischer’s Union Berlin line up with their trademark solidity and discipline, but with attacking outlets ready to punish mistakes.

Defensive Core: Ronnow continues to be a reliable shot-stopper, shielded by the experienced Trimmel and Doekhi. Querfeld and Rothe bring a youthful edge, but discipline will be crucial against Dortmund’s movement.
Wing Strength: Trimmel and Skov are key in transition. Both can surge forward and deliver dangerous balls into the box, but will also need to track back against Dortmund’s wingbacks.
Midfield Engine: Kral, Khedira, and Haberer form a combative trio. Their pressing and ball recovery could dictate whether Union can disrupt Dortmund’s rhythm.
Attack Options: Ilic and Ansah spearhead the front line. Ansah’s speed on the break is a constant threat, while Ilic’s technical skills provide variety in attack.

Union Berlin’s setup highlights defensive resilience with quick transitions, seeking to exploit any gaps Dortmund leave behind when pushing forward.

Time And date

Sunday, August 31, 2025

USA (ET): 11:30 AM

UK (BST): 4:30 PM

Venue:

Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund (also known as Westfalenstadion)

How & Where to Watch by Region

ESPN+,DAZN,Sky sport

What to Expect

Dortmund will likely dominate possession, relying on Brandt, Sabitzer, and Bellingham to carve through Union’s compact shape.
Union Berlin will sit deeper, aiming to frustrate their opponents before striking back through Ilic and Ansah on the counter.
Set pieces could prove decisive, with Union traditionally strong in aerial duels and Dortmund having Guirassy as a target man.

This clash isn’t just about points—it’s a test of philosophies: Dortmund’s attacking flair against Union’s collective discipline.