Borussia Dortmund took control of their Champions League playoff tie with a 2-0 first-leg victory over Atalanta on Tuesday.
Serhou Guirassy scored one goal and provided an assist as the German side secured their 100th win in Europe’s top competition.
Early Lead Despite Late Kick-Off
The match kicked off 15 minutes late after Dortmund’s team bus was caught in traffic. However, the delay had little impact on the hosts.
Inside three minutes, right-back Julian Ryerson delivered a precise cross to Guirassy, who headed home to give Dortmund an early lead.
Dortmund Strike Again Before Halftime
Despite seeing less of the ball, Dortmund maintained control and struck again in the 42nd minute.
Guirassy surged down the left flank and picked out Max Beier with a pinpoint pass. Beier bundled the ball over the line to double the advantage just before halftime.
Atalanta Struggle In Front of Goal
Dortmund nearly extended their lead midway through the second half when captain Julian Brandt fired over from eight yards after a corner fell kindly to him.
Atalanta struggled to create clear-cut chances and were limited to speculative efforts from distance, none of which troubled goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
Dortmund finished with just two shots on target, both resulting in goals.
Second Leg Awaits In Bergamo
Both teams will meet again on February 25 in Bergamo, where Atalanta will attempt to overturn the deficit.
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