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Overthrowing an Empire: One Yellow Wall at a time.

It is time for the bullying super power that is Bayern Munich to be overthrown for good and here is my journey to do so.
Started on 23 May 2016 by BeanyUnited
Latest Reply on 13 September 2016 by BeanyUnited
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Dortmund's title challenge soars as they dominate in September


The month of August only treated Dortmund fans to a measly three competitive fixtures, including one against an amateur football club in the DFB-Pokal. September however, was the start of the fixtures coming thick and fast.

Before the month started Bean that he would be content with four wins and two draws, as two of the games were Champions League group matches, Bean admitted he would take a win and a draw in the opening set of fixtures, to give his side a solid foundation for qualification.

Bayern Munich VS Dortmund 0-0




The previous meeting between these two sides of course ended in that entertaining 3-2 victory for Munich in the German Super Cup. This fixture however was a defensive masterclass from a Dortmund side, more well known for their attacking displays.

Dortmund managed to restrict Munich to just one shot on target and 11 shots in total. It was in fact, Dortmund who in the dying embers of the game had the balled cleared off the line rather dubiously by Jerome Boateng, with replays showing what Bean and his side furiously protested, that the German centre back had used his forearm to clear the ball.

But Bean should be more than happy with picking up a point away at rivals Bayern Munich.


Dortmund VS PSV 3-0


Joshua Bean's first ever game in the Champions League was against Dutch side, PSV.

While being heavily expected to win, it was not going to be a walk in the park and Dortmund were made to work for all of their three goals.

Mario Fernandes opened the scoring on 35 minutes, curling the ball home from just inside the area, following a beautiful through ball by Mkhitryan. The first time finish from the right-back, was a joy to behold and it will be replayed many times over.

Despite being a goal down, PSV very rarely threatened and eventually Aubameyang put the game to bed with a simple header into an empty net, with just nine minutes to go.

Mkhitaryan capped off the display scoring in the second minute of added time, the winger combined for a fluent one-two with Julian Weigl. After being played in behind by the young central midfielder, Mkhitaryan made no mistake, as he blasted the ball past the keeper at the near post.


Dortmund VS Ingolstadt 3-0


Despite winning 3-0, Borussia Dortmund will be even more delighted with their defensive performance. They managed to prevent Ingolstadt from having a single shot all game, that is right, Ingolstadt, a Bundesliga side, went an entire 90 minutes without having a single shot all game.

The game was set up for Dortmund just to casually control possession the minute Mkhitaryan scored within the opening five minutes. The inform winger, latched himself onto a Marco Reus cross and volleyed the ball home from point blank range.

Reus then bagged a double of his own, scoring twice in the second half to complete the dominant performance. Young left-back, Jorge, surged down the left hand side and his drilled cross found Xabi Alonso on the edge of the area. The former Bayern man, duly slotted the ball between two defenders and Reus was able to slot it past the keeper.

His second goal was a lot simpler for Dortmund, with the German winger scoring from the penalty spot with just four minutes remaining in the match.


Borussia Mönchengladbach VS Dortmund 1-2




A local rivalry between title holders Dortmund and title challengers Borussia Mönchengladbach. The home side came under criticism from some areas of the media, after players and fans alike claimed that this year they will knock Dortmund of their perch and win the title themselves.

Their confidence was initially well rewarded, after Jorge gave away a penalty which was tucked away in the right hand corner by Raffael, after just eight minutes.

Dortmund were under the thumb for the entire first half, but whatever Bean said to his men at half-time worked a treat, as they were not recognisable compared to the first-half.

Borussia Mönchengladbach were not prepared for the onslaught that followed and they gifted possession to Aubameyang just inside their half, Dortmund turned defence into attack with amazing speed and the striker beat several defenders before pulling ball across goal to Marco Reus, who unselfishly beat the final man and then played it back to Aubameyang who made no mistake from just three yards out.

With the game heading to a 1-1 draw, which unlike many draws, would have been one of the most thrilling games of the month, there was one last twist.

Marco Reus beat his opposite number with a delightful Cruyff turn and then played Jorge in behind. The Brazilian fullback, launched a hopeful looking cross into the Borussia Mönchengladbach area, but to the shock of the home fans, Mkhitaryan arrived out of nowhere, completely unmarked, to put the ball into the back of the net, to the jubilation of Joshua Bean who was later warned by the German FA, for running down the touchline to celebrate in front of the Dortmund away fans.


Dortmund VS Frankfurt 3-1


In the final league game of the month, Dortmund hosted Frankfurt at home. The home side were however, without star striker Aubameyang and equally as important central midfielder İlkay Gündoğan.

The loss of these two players was evident, as Dortmund struggled in the first half, only having one clear cut chance, with Reus striking the near post from a free-kick.

18 year old sensation Luís Henrique, opened the scoring just two minutes into the second half, latching onto a Reus cross, by getting in front of his marker the youngster was able to pass it into the net from point blank range, making it a goal on his debut.

Frankfurt however equalised in under a minute, thanks to a superb goal from Szabolcs Huszti. The Hungarian midfielder picked the ball up from just inside the Dortmund half, a quick one-two with his midfield partner, saw him break away from Mario Fernandes and blast the ball past Rulli in goal.

A furious Joshua Bean ordered his players to switch on and just 15 minutes later, Gonzalo Castro, in for Gündoğan, scored a well timed header from just several yards out, making it 2-1.

The matched was finished just minutes later, when Luís Henrique scored his second goal on his first team debut, lobbing the Frankfurt keeper from outside the area, much to the amusement of Joshua Bean who applauded warmly.


FC Basel VS Dortmund 1-3


Away games are often considered more important than home matches in the group stages of the Champions League, with many managers believing that if you can't pick up at least one draw when away from home, then you don't have a strong chance of qualifying for the later stages.

Bean was initially concerned for his side may be returning home with no points, when Basel went ahead thanks to a a wonderful header from the tiny Renato Steffen. Somehow the 5ft 5' winger managed to find enough space at the back post, to head the cross home.

Yet again this month however Dortmund Mkhitaryan to thank, as his equaliser came just 10 minutes later, with a near enough identical finish to that of Steffen.

Julian Weigl then scored one of his long range curling specials, as he curled the ball into the top right corner, from a good 25 yards. The travelling Dortmund fans could not believe their eyes as the ball just snuck underneath the crossbar.

Basel lost any chance of winning the game when Taulant Xhaka was sent off for a second bookable offence, with 22 minutes remaining.

Mkhitaryan made the extra man count, scoring a wonderful team goal, with 10 minutes remaining to make it 3-1 to Dortmund and his second of the night.


Competition Review


Well there is no way I can't be happy with this months performances. Even picking up a point at Bayern, despite struggling against them every time we play them. It is early doors yet, but that point could be hugely important in the context of the season as it is more like two points dropped for Bayern.




Monthly Awards





Dortmund continue to storm ahead of the pack domestically and in Europe


September saw Borussia Dortmund throw down the gauntlet to the challenging pack, making it obvious to everyone, if any club wants to take the Bundesliga of our hands then they will need to fight tooth and nail for it.

October saw Dortmund wreck havoc once again, as they started to build a gap between themselves and the chasing pack atop the Bundesliga table.

Hertha Berlin VS Dortmund 1-2




First game of the month, saw the champions travel to the city capital to take on Hertha Berlin.

Last months player of the month, Mkhitaryan, scored yet again as he netted the opening goal after 15 minutes, slotting the ball home following a wonderful counter-attack with Aubameyang and Reus.

Reus made it 2-0 with just four minutes remaining in the match, effectively ending the chances of a draw for Berlin. Reus made no mistake as he scored from the penalty spot, after Aubameyang was tugged down at a corner.

Vedad Ibisevic did pull one back for the home side as time expired but it was too little, too late, as Dortmund left the capital with all three points after a toughly fought contest.


Dortmund VS 1. FC Kaiserslautern 5-0


An easy win was predicted for Borussia Dortmund, playing in front of their home fans and it was an easy win that they got, smashing the visiting side 5-0.

The game was yet again bossed by the Armenian winger Mkhitaryan, who scored a hat-trick, as he guided his side to a dominant win over the relegation tipped side. Marco Reus also contributed two goals of his own.

It was actually Reus who scored the opening two goals of the game, having scored twice within 12 minutes, Reus and Dortmand could relax knowing the three points where theirs.

Reus opened the scoring, with a deftly executed lob to trick the 1. FC Kaiserslautern keeper, who foolishly rushed out to pressure Reus when he was played in behind by Julian Weigl. His second goal of the game was a simple far post tap in, following a superb cross from Xabi Alonso deep on the byline.

It was then time for Mkhitaryan to steal the show from Reus, scoring a thunderbolt of a goal after 16 minutes, reminiscent of Cristiano Ronaldo's goal against Porto many years ago for Manchester United.

His second of the game came just before half time, in a similar fashion to Reus's second goal. He was left unmarked at the back post and was able to tap the ball in.

His hat-trick was sealed after 75 minutes, when he rounded the keeper following a Julian Weigl through ball and slotted the ball down the middle of the net.

Dortmund left the field to a standing ovation from both sets of fans and Mkhitaryan did little to shake off the claims that he was to be one of the best players in the league this season.


Olympique Lyonnais vs Dortmund 0-0


A rather dull 0-0 game was played out in France. Dortmund came into the match knowing a draw here would realistically make them the deciders of their own fates within the Champions League group stages.

There were very few chances to talk about, but Xabi Alonso stood out for his solid defensive performance, preventing the pacey striker Alexandre Lacazette from being a danger.

Dortmund fans left rather content with the point and another clean sheet.


FC Schalke 04 VS Dortmund 1-1




In what is arguably the most heated and hate filled rivalry in German football, Dortmund and Schalke faced off yet again. It is a rivalry which may not be as important to some of the players, but the fans certainly hold a place in their hearts to hate the opposing fans with all their worth.

In an extremely aggressive affair, Dortmund were later fined and Joshua Bean officially warned by the German FA after his side picked up seven bookings throughout the course of the game.

Aubameyang scored after just 22 minutes, to send the away fans into delirium as they took the lead over their arch rivals. The striker latched onto a cross from Mario Fernandes and headed the ball home.

Dortmund fans however, were left heartbroken when Schalke hero, Klass-Jan Huntelaar, equalised for the home side with just 13 minutes remaining, heading home from a fizzing free-kick on the right hand touchline.

As the full-time whistle sounded out around the stadium, Dortmund fans applauded their team off the pitch, with the background of yellow smoke bombs, it sure did make an impressive picture.


Bochum VS Dortmund 0-2


It was another DFB-Pokal fixture for Bean and his men, as they travelled away to 2. Bundesliga side, VfL Bochum.

With Bean playing his entire reserve squad, to allow the first team rest and his second string side game time, it saw VfL Bochum hold out a lot longer than Bean would have liked. Eventually Gonzalo Castro broke the deadlock with 25 minutes remaining, scoring directly from a free-kick, just outside of the area.

The match was somewhat marred by the sending off of Tim Hoogland, who was involved in an altercation with Shane Long, which saw the VfL Bochum player sent off and Long escape punishment, despite replays showing that he was as guilty as Hoogland for going into a 50/50 challenge.

Summer signing Shane Long put this controversy behind him as he added to his tally of Dortmund goals, heading in from close range in the 74th minute, to end any hopes of a VfL Bochum shock.

Shane Long had a very good game and he received a hug from his manager when he was subbed off with just minutes remaining. The Irishmen, has settled in quickly at Dortmund.


Dortmund VS 1. FC Köln 3-1


1. FC Köln travelled to Dortmund knowing full well that they were under immense pressure to put up a strong fight, after struggling to get any form going thus far.

Things couldn't have started any worse for 1. FC Köln as Aubameyang somehow managed to intercept a loose back pass to score after just 46 seconds.

The striker added his second, in nearly as lucky fashion, when a deflected Marco Reus shot found him in a position which can only be described as 'borderline' offside, but that didn't stop him putting it into the back of the net.

Koln did however, fightback and managed to make it 2-1, courtesy of a penalty from Mikael Ishak with 7 minutes remaining the the match.

Julian Weigl however, who had been suffering from a slight dip in form n recent matches, ended any chances of a 2-0 comeback, as he scored from outside the area yet again, blasting home after Mkhitaryan dragged the ball back to him.


Competition Review


It was yet another month for my side as we marched on wards. Going forwards we look nearly unstoppable, but I would prefer it if we didn't concede so many stupid late goals. They aren't coming back to haunt us, but it mares what could be perfect performances.




Monthly Awards





Dortmund dominate in November


The season was already several months in and Borussia Dortmund, under the careful guidance of firm fan favourite Joshua Bean, were enjoying what can only be described as a sensational start to their title defence.

There were another six games for the fans to sink their teeth into, in the month of November. Three Bundesliga matches and three Champions League matches.

Dortmund VS Olympique Lyonnais 3-2




After a dull 0-0 draw in France between the two sides, the fans were not expecting much of this clash. In the end they left feeling very satisfied that their hard earned money was well spent for the evening.

Young left-back Jorge, who has been turning heads with his string of standout performances, scored the opening goal of the night, heading home at the back post following a deep cross from his fellow fullback Mario Fernandes.

Jorge very quickly went from hero to zero however as he just three minutes later he gave away a penalty following a rash challenge. French international, Mathieu Valbuena dusted himself off and blasted the ball home to bring the sides level.

Aubameyang then restored Dortmund's slender lead just two minutes later, curling the ball past the keeper, after a defensive blunder allowed the striker through on goal.

But Olympique Lyonnais struck yet again, this time they were the side to score just two minutes after conceding, when Nabil Fekir rounded Gerónimo Rulli and was able to just squeeze the ball into the net.

It looked as if the game was going to be yet another draw between the two sides, but Aubameyang had different ideas. The explosive striker latched onto a Marco Reus diagonal ball and blasted the ball into the back of the net, to secure all three points for the home side.


Hamburg VS Dortmund 2-2


This is a game that Dortmund had no right to snatch a point in.

Coming into the game, the travelling side would have expected to win comfortably against a struggling Hamburg side, but instead they saw themselves fall behind after just three minutes, courtesy of a Neal Maupay header from point blank range.

The game took a turn for the worse when Albin Ekdal made it 2-0 to the home side after 31 minutes, scoring a deflected effort, which spun past the despairing Gerónimo Rulli after he was sent the wrong way by the deflection.

But heroes often turn up in unexpected people and it was Marouane Fellaini who brought Dortmund back into the game. Out muscling everyone during a corner, the Belgian rose the highest to head home, giving Dortmund hope.

Hamburg responded by shutting up shop and Dortmund struggled to make any dents into their solid defensive line. But the home fans were to suffer devastation with just minutes remaining.

In the 89th minute, Reus was able to beat his man and as he attempted to cut back inside the German winger was bundled to the floor rather easily it must be said. The referee however had no hesitation and awarded the penalty.

Aubameyang, who scored twice against Olympique Lyonnais, kept Dortmund's unbeaten streak alive as he chipped the keeper down the middle, showing off his confidence.


Dortmund VS Augsburg 3-0


A comfortable victory and a comfortable three points in a month of tough matches so far.

Mario Fernandes scored after just 15 minutes, volleying home from the edge of the six yard box, after the defence failed to clear a scuffed shot by Julian Weigl.

Marco Reus, whose dived drew strong criticism post match last weekend, put the critics out of his mind as he scored an absolute rocket of a goal from a good 25 yards out, leaving the keeper rooted to the spot and his fellow teammates in disbelief at the goal.

Just 10 minutes into the second half, Mkhitaryan ended any chance of a comeback from Augsburg when he scored his first goal of November, slotting the ball past the keeper, following a wonderful ball from İlkay Gündoğan.


PSV VS Dortmund 0-3




Shock signing of the summer, Shane Long came under some criticism has he signed his contract with many saying that while the deal was very cheap, he just was not cut out for this level.

The Irishmen duly answered those critics, as he scored a hat-trick against PSV to secure top spot for Dortmund in Group C.

Dortmund only needed a point to secure top spot so Bean decided it was an ideal time to rest his first team and played a completely rotated side. As a result, they set up in a more counter-attacking basis knowing that PSV had to win to have any chance to qualify for the later stages.

It was the Irishmen's strength and pace that made his hat-trick possible today, he opened the scoring within 20 minutes, running onto a punt up field by Gonzalo Castro. The Irish striker was able to barge his defender out of his way, control the ball and strike a perfect shot into the opposite, past the keeper who barely had time to react to the fact that his defender suddenly lost the ball.

His second came exactly one minute later, as he headed home from a pin point Marcel Schmelzer delivery, leaving the home fans raging as they saw their side crumble to a second string Dortmund outfit.

The former Southampton man completed his Champions League hat-trick, eight minutes into the second half, again running onto a long ball from defence but this time he managed to lob it over the keeper to round up the game and secure top spot.


Paderborn VS Dortmund 1-5


It was a simple rout by Borussia Dortmund as they humiliated the home side today.

İlkay Gündoğan scored after just 10 minutes. The German midfielder received the ball from teammate Xabi Alonso and beat his opposite number, before hitting a low shot straight into the bottom corner.

Marco Reus then scored two goals in two minutes, both directly from free-kicks from near enough the exact same location, leaving the home fans in disbelief that their side were caught out twice by the exact same free-kick.

Mkhitaryan scored his second of the month as he made it 4-0 before half-time, heading home a Marco Reus cross.

Then just several minutes into the second half, Marco Reus completed his hat-trick, this time heading in at the back post, following a great ball from Mkhitaryan. The German winger looked delighted with his performance.

Paderborn did save some blushes when Christian Schulz scored a tap in after 57 minutes. But it was not a great game for the home fans to sit through and Dortmund went home happy yet again.


Dortmund VS Basel 2-0


Dortmund managed to extend their unbeaten streak for another game as they beat Basel comfortably at home, with their second string side playing once again.

Fullback Park Joo-Ho scored after just seven minutes, tapping the ball in, from just millimetres out following a scuffed shot from Shane Long.

Young striker Luís Henrique scored yet again for the first team, adding yet another goal to his name after getting off to a rampaging start in the Dortmund second team.

The 18 year old starlet, managed to nutmeg one defender and twist another inside out, before blasting the ball into the back of the net.

It was a superb solo goal and Dortmund fans realised that while he has some growing to do, this is a young man who has a very special future ahead of him.

The game finished 2-0, with the damage being done early on and Dortmund finished the Champions League group stages, with another win.


Competition Review


Yet again there is no way that I can't be happy with this month, five wins and just one draw means that I end the month top of the Bundesliga and I cruised to top spot in Group C of the Champions League.




Monthly Awards




great month! good to see rotated squads winning too: shows great depth, keep it up
@InfraRed Thanks a lot pal! Will try my best :)

Dortmund enjoy pre-Christmas celebrations


The month of December sees just five matches for the Dortmund fans to enjoy before Christmas. But enjoy them they did.

Dortmund VS 1. FSV Mainz 05 3-0


Mainz have been struggling thus far this season, making this home fixture that much more expectant for the Dortmund fans. Anything but three points here would be a huge disappointment, but thankfully that is a feel the fans did not have to experience as they saw their side romp the visitors 3-0.

Youngster Julian Weigl scored the opening goal after just 12 minutes, heading home following a Marco Reus free kick on the far byline. Reus whipped in a vicious delivery which evaded everyone and Weigl was able to head home, seemingly unmarked.

Aubameyang grabbed a goal just two minutes later, tapping home from several yards out, after some delightful build up play involving everyone bar the goalkeeper and two centre backs. The final ball was a delightful chip by Xabi

Alonso and Aubameyang was able to tap the ball past a keeper dragged out of position by the quick passing.

Marco Reus scored a well deserved goal himself, in added time, scoring at the back post from just several yards out, following a Mkhitaryan cross.


Dortmund VS Borussia Mönchengladbach: German Cup 3-2




A bitter rivalry game which Bean has dominated so far in his career. These sides met several months ago, with Mkhitaryan scoring a winner in the dying minutes of the game.

This game was equally dramatic.

Borussia Mönchengladbach winger Patrick Herrmann put the visitors in the lead with a wonderful solo goal after half an hour, beating every defensive player before embarrassing Gerónimo Rulli with a cheeky chip.

Summer signing Shane Long, replaced the injured Aubameyang however and with just eight minutes remaining the former Southampton player, headed home from a corner to take the game to extra time.

Just seconds before the whistle blew to indicate extra time, Dortmund were reduced to 10 men after Jose Gimenez was sent off for an off the ball clash with Herrmann, to the disgust of Joshua Bean, who was later fined for claiming the referee enjoyed being the centre of attention.

Havard Nordtveit scored just two minutes into extra time, heading home from his own sides corner, much like the Shane Long goal.

German international Marco Reus spoke before the match, about how he understood he needs to stand up in game such as this and he did just that, scoring a stunning free-kick from 20 yards out to draw the game level.
Having a man advantage, Borussia Mönchengladbach pressed forwards looking for a goal to take the lead yet again. A Borussia Mönchengladbach was ironically the downfall for them.

The visitors surged forwards and Patrick Herrmann had his shot cleared dramatically off the line, the clearance by Mario Fernandes was nothing more than a hoof up field to clear the ball and was not intended for Shane Long at all. But a defensive mishap, gave Long a chance to pounce and he surged towards the ball, shoulder barging his defensive marker out of his way.

Through on goal with the keeper the striker made no mistake as he absolutely hammered the ball past the diving arms of Yann Sommer in goal.

There was still the second half of extra time to go but, that didn’t stop the Dortmund players running the length of the field to swamp Long in delirious celebration.

The home side very swiftly put all remaining 10 men behind the ball and were able to cling onto the one goal lead.




1. FC Nürnberg VS Dortmund 0-2


This game was slightly easier for Dortmund fans to sit through as they eased to another win in the Bundesliga, this time sweeping FC Nürnberg aside.

Aubameyang had slowly been climbing back to the very, very high form he enjoyed last season as Dortmund went onto their stunning domestic double and it was goals like the one he scored in this fixture, which means he was finally back.

A goal which reminisces Cantona’s first goal after his return from suspension, Aubameyang managed to chip the goalkeeper from outside the area, with a first time shot, after a heavy pass from Xabi Alonso.

10 minutes later and the game was over when Mkhitaryan was left unmarked at the back post and was able to time his run to perfection, to latch onto to a Jorge cross which flew over everyone.


Dortmund VS Darmstadt 2-0


Yet another easy match, as Dortmund faced yet another side in the bottom half of the table, making the 2-0 win a rather routine victory.

Again it was two goals before half-time which ended the game and made the second half a routine walk about for the reigning champions.

Yet again it was Aubameyang who opened the scoring, tapping in from just a few yards out, following a wonderful cross from Mkhitaryan. The Armenian winger was able to beat his marker before whipping in a powerful ball which bounced up perfectly for the Dortmund striker.

Marco Reus rounded off the victory, as he made no mistake from the penalty spot to secure all three points. The winger actually won the penalty when his corner was deemed to have struck the arm of a Darmstadt defender, the winger stepped up to the spot and sent the keeper the wrong way.

Dortmund should have and could have made it 3-0, 4-0 and maybe even 5-0. But fluffed their chances when they fell to them, but they still went home with all three points.


Werder Bremen VS Dortmund 0-3


The Dortmund away fans were left celebrating long into the night, as they witnessed their side complete a 100% month, as they thrashed Werder

Bremen 3-0 in their own backyard.

It took Dortmund an entire 40 minutes to open the scoring, but yet again it was

Aubameyang who opened up the scoring for the away side. A quick one-two with midfielder Julian Weigl, followed by another one-two with Mkhitaryan saw the striker played in behind and he rounded the keeper to slot the ball home with ease.

Mkhitaryan scored the second goal of the game, heading home from a Marco Reus cross, to leave the Bremen manager pulling his hair out.
İlkay Gündoğan finished off the match with half an hour still to go, as he curled the ball into the far corner from just outside the area.


Competition review


My best month yet in two seasons as Borussia Dortmund manager. A late win against arch rivals Borussia Mönchengladbach and several comfortable wins showing the dominance of my side. We are going from strength to strength and look unstoppable.

I stupidly forgot to screenshot the competition screen as I usually do, but I am six points clear at the top of the table and have Eintracht Braunschweig in the next round of the DFB-Pokal.

Monthly Awards




Dayum so many clean sheets jeeeez ;)
@Atoobie I have been blessed with not needing to buy many attacking players so all money goes on defensive players, starting to pay off as we can see!! Thanks for the comment and for reading :)

Borussia Dortmund draw Inter Milan in last 16 of Champions League




It may be Joshua Bean's first time in the Champions League as a manager, but he is extremely confident of going all the way with his Dortmund side that have dominated the Bundesliga so far this season.

After bossing Group C, winning the group with ease, the Dortmund boss told journalists that he would happily face anyone apart from Real Madrid or Barcelona at this stage of the tournament.

At the Champions League draw, when the match was announced, Bean and his assistant manager Steve Walsh were pictured smiling and shaking hands, a sure sign that they believe they have a very good chance of qualifying one round further.

Inter Milan may still be a big team in name, but they are not the same force that they were several years ago, currently lagging behind in fourth place in Serie A, trailing the front three by a massive 11 points.

Dortmund on the other hand are so far unbeaten and are seemingly walking away with the league title, as main challengers Bayern Munich are having a surprisingly slow start to the season.

This is what Inter Milan manager Roberto Mancini had to say about the upcoming fixture.

" Well I am neither happy nor sad about the draw. I believe the two sides to be fairly equal in terms of stature and strength, the first game is in the San Siro so hopefully we can take a commanding lead away and hold onto that for dear life. Who knows, but I am confident that we can get a result over two legs here."

Joshua Bean declined any interviews until he was back home in Germany, due to the clubs busy winter break schedule of training, but he did release a statement through he club website.

Any draw in the Champions League is going to be difficult at this stage of the competition, but I am very confident that with the players we have and the form that we are in, alongside the fact that the final game is played in front of our own fans, we will have just enough to see off the challenge of Mancini and Inter Milan in the coming tie.

Dortmund enjoy a well earned winters break and continue fine form domestically


Borussia Dortmund were surging away from the rest of the pack in the Bundesliga and were going from strength to strength in the Champions League and the DFB-Pokal and the dreams of a treble were so far still alive, but it was early doors.

In the winters break Joshua Bean rested his starting XI and allowed the second string a run out, as they beat SC Verl and SpVgg Greuther Fürth respectively.

They played two league games this month against Bayer Leverkusen and Wolsfburg.

Dortmund VS Bayer Leverkusen 2-2


Borussia Dortmund fans came into the clash believing that their side should run out eventual winners it what will be a tough clash between two of the leagues best sides.

But things didn't start as planned when Wendell scored in added time of the first half with a thunderous volley from the edge of the area. Bean was visibly fuming at his sides slack defending and the fact they had conceded on the verge of half-time, always a damaging time to concede as everyone in football knows well.

Whatever Bean said at half time worked wonders, as Julian Weigl scored just two minutes into the second, placing the ball wonderfully into the corner of the net, with another goal this game coming from the edge of the penalty area.

Shane Long then added Dortmund's second as they came from behind to take the lead within 20 minutes. The Irish striker, headed home impressively showing off his strength, from a Marco Reus corner, leaving the Dortmund fans relieved.

However it was not to be a win for Dortmund, as Leverkusen scored a penalty thanks to Zaza, with just five minutes remaining. Dortmund were able to create any late chances and Leverkusen fans were delighted to go home with a point.


Wolfsburg VS Dortmund 0-1


Not very often in recent years have Borussia Dortmund taken part in a very, very boring game and so far under Joshua Bean it is hard to recall such a boring game as this one.

Dortmund fans will be delighted with the fact that they leave the match with all three points, but the way their side struggled attacking the opposition goal was not fun to watch for the visiting supporters.

Marco Reus scored the one and only goal of the game after just 10 minutes, his scuffed shot deflecting off a defender and past the wrong footed keeper. It wasn't pretty and it was far from his best goal, but Reus will celebrate it none the less and it brought home all three points for the league leaders.


Competition review


Only two competitive games were played and I picked up four points. But in reality I am not best pleased about either of the games.

My side should be beating all visiting teams bar maybe Bayern Munich and future opponents in the Champions League depending on who we draw. In the league, with my side we should be storming away with an amazing home record. But a point is still a point so I can't be too tough.

Three points against Wolfsburg is obviously amazing but the performance needs some work!




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You're absolutely storming it this year bud, no stopping Dortmund!
Still Undefeated!!Great work mate!
Atoobie Thanks dude I am shocked at how we are performing myself!!

TheLFCFan Thanks for following dude :)

Dortmund stumble twice as Munich make ground


By the end of January the season looked like only thing was going to happen, Borussia Dortmund were going to run away with it and there was nothing that anyone could do.

But a surprisingly poor month in February saw the league leaders slice their lead against the chasing pack.

Dortmund VS Eintracht Braunschweig 4-2




The first match of the month was supposed to be a walk over for the home side, as they faced Bundesliga 2 side, Eintracht Braunschweig.

It was in fact the underdogs who took the lead after just three minutes, László Kleinheisler, who scored a deft first time finish, past the despairing arms of Gerónimo Rulli who was left stunned that the Hungarian midfielder was given so much space and time on the ball.

Arguably one of the best players this season in the entire Bundesliga, Mkhitaryan, brought the sides level in the 52nd minute. The Armenian winger doing well to latch onto a fizzed delivery from youngster Jorge.

Just five minutes later, Xabi Alonso delivered what home fans thought would be a fatal blow, as he put Dortmund ahead from the penalty spot.

Eintracht Braunschweig did not give up after falling behind however, as Nik Omladic scored with just several minutes remaining in the second half, to take the game to extra-time.

But the superior quality of the Dortmund players, finally shone through, maybe helped by the fatigue of the Bundesliga 2 side and Mkhitaryan put his side ahead just three minutes into extra-time.

The winger this time carved open the Eintracht Braunschweig defence single handedly, before chipping the ball over the on rushing goalkeeper. The game was finished just a few minutes later when Marco Reus was able to tap the ball in at the back post completely unmarked.

The home side were relieved to be going through to the semi-finals of the DFB-Pokal once more.


Dortmund VS Bayern Munich 1-2




Press and fans alike were debating whether, if Dortmund were to beat Bayern Munich here today, would the season already be over. But in the end it was the visitors who were able to come away with all three points and left Joshua Bean raging at his players long after the match had finished.

Julian Weigl even spoke of the rage of the manager in his post-match press conference.

Things started off well for Dortmund, when Mkhitaryan followed up his brace last weekend, when he scored a beautifully angled header, which left Manual Neuer unable to reach the ball after scrambling across his line.

But just 10 minutes later, Thomas Muller equalised, heading home himself, this time from the near post, as his glancing header was enough to send the ball flying into the far corner, off the post.

From the go in the second half, Munich were by far the stronger side and Dortmund looked unable to cope. It summed up the course of the game, when Muller was awarded a penalty for a dubious looking dive, which Arturo Vidal made no mistake from as he smashed the ball past Gerónimo Rulli.

Dortmund were unable to make any more chances of note during the game, as Munich were more than happy to sit back and absorb the pressure and in the end it was enough as they left with a hugely important three points.


Inter Milan VS Dortmund 0-0


In one of the dullest games to every grace a football pitch, Joshua Bean's tactics and ideas for this first leg was obvious. Don't concede and take the game back home and storm to victory, in front of their home fans, Dortmund are nearly unstoppable going forward.

While it ended in a loss, Munich have one of the best defences in Europe, not conceding in eight games before that game and Dortmund were still able to breach their barriers.

Whether in the overall course of this tie, this defensive attitude away from home works out, is yet to be seen, but the first part of the plan has been executed superbly.

Inter Milan will have to come and attack Dortmund away from home to go through, as Dortmund can't be hit on the counter attack. With Xabi Alonso sitting back for most attacks and Julian Weigl rarely over committing himself, the German side were next to impossible to hit on the break as they always have a minimum of four men behind the ball.

As a result Dortmand fans may be nervous that an away goal from a set piece could course fatal, they are optimistic that they are now the clear favourites to go through to the next round.


Ingolstadt VS Dortmund 1-2


A game that quite literally two different ways in the very last minute.

A straight red card for Danny da Costa in added time of the first half, gave Dortmund a hugely important man advantage. In form winger, Mkhitaryan who was not making any mistakes this month thus far, was played through on goal by Marco Reus with wonderful outside of the foot pass. The winger was able to finish with ease as he raced around the keeper, before slotting the ball into the net.

But with the win in Dortmund's grasp, Markus Suttner sent the home fans into delirium when he scored an absolute thunderbolt from outside the box. A whipped in corner, was headed out by Mario Fernandes, only for Suttner who was ready to pounce, did just that and sent the ball flying into the top corner.

With just 22 seconds remaining it seemed impossible for Dortmund to score again, but straight from the kick-off, Aubameyang was allowed to run at the defenders as they eased off the pressure believing the whistle was to come soon.

Marco Reus showed great instinct and reading of the play as he noticed the lack of energy in the home side, and he surged past his defender, Aubameyang played him in beautifully and just like that, Dortmund were going home with all three points as Reus netted as time expired.


Dortmund VS Borussia Mönchengladbach 1-0




By this rivalries standards it was a rather drab affair, but the home side will not be complaining as they saw their side defeat their local rivals.

There were no real chances from either side in the first half, with fatigue and bad for catching up on both sides, as games started to come thick and fast.

Mkhitaryan once again broke the hearts of the Borussia Mönchengladbach fans, as he scored late on once more, this time wriggling free of the defence, before simply smashing the ball as hard as he physically could, past the diving Borussia Mönchengladbach goalkeeper.

As rivalry matches go, it was a very very poor game, but Dortmund still managed to extend their fine form over their local rivals.



Frankfurt VS Dortmund 1-0


With the second leg of the Champions League tie coming in just a few days, Bean put faith in his second string players, against a struggling Frankfurt side.

It would appear that his faith was misplaced, as his side failed to create any clear cut chances early on, compared to Frankfurt making four.

The game was made even harder for Dortund, when Sokratis Papastathopoulos was shown a straight red card, for allegedly kicking out at an opposition player off the ball. The red card arguably cost Dortmund any chance of winning the game.

Teemu Pukkl was the man who shocked Dortmund, when he scored with just 24 minutes remaining, scoring a penalty, after yet another example of ill-discipline from Dortmund, this time Marouane Fellaini who was caught handling the ball in his own area.

After going a goal down, Dortmund were still lacklustre upfront and didn't create any real chances and rightfully left the game with nothing.


Competition review


I am, as you may have guessed by now, not best pleased with this month. I can't believe that we lost to Frankfurt and I am also angry that we lost to Munich yet again, despite the fact that we were at home and took the lead. Even the DFB-Pokal match saw us taken to extra time by a team in the league below. But all in all it wasn't a disastrous month, just not a great one!




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Not the best month, losing to both Bayern and Frankfurt. That away draw against Inter is a great result to take back to Germany with, though!
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