One of the more interesting but less coveted last 16 ties of this season's Champions League takes place in Germany on Wednesday night as Borussia Dortmund host PSV Eindhoven. The two sides that are fairly evenly matched, as shown in the first leg of this tie, and will lock horns once again with the tie firmly in the balance.
Borussia Dortmund, currently occupying 4th place in the Bundesliga with 47 points, find themselves in a season of introspection and transition. Once revered as Bayern Munich's closest challengers, their current campaign has seen them lose ground, both in terms of points and prestige. This season’s narrative has been one of inconsistency, marked by a squad that, despite possessing talent, seems to lack the depth and highly sought-after assets of previous years. This shortfall is emblematic of a team in need of rejuvenation, with calls for strategic overhauls growing louder.
Date: 13/03/2024
Kick-off time: 20:00
Location: Signal Iduna Park
Manager Edin Terzić faces mounting pressure, with the belief that he has not maximized the squad's capabilities a sentiment that resonates with both the fans and pundits alike. Despite these domestic challenges, Dortmund have shown a different face in European competition. They emerged as leaders from this season’s 'Group of Death', showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level against formidable opponents like PSG, Milan, and Newcastle.
The first leg of their encounter with PSV in the Netherlands ended in a 1-1 draw, a result that no doubt favours the Bundesliga outfit. Donyell Malen, who scored Dortmund's goal in that game, has been a standout performer this season, alongside January loanee Ian Maatsen, who after joining on loan from Chelsea in January has made a tangible difference to the side.
On the other hand, PSV Eindhoven sit atop the Eredivisie table, boasting a 10-point lead, a clear indicator of their dominance in the Dutch league. Under the guidance of Peter Bosz, who has a tumultuous history with Dortmund, PSV have showcased quality and consistency. Despite a fair 1-1 draw in the first leg, PSV will be well aware of the challenge that lies ahead at Signal Iduna Park, a fortress that has seen many a great battle in this competition.
Key players like Joey Veerman, Johan Bakayoko, and top scorer Luuk de Jong have been instrumental in PSV’s campaign. Their performances in the Eredivisie have been nothing short of impressive, but translating that form onto the European stage, especially away from home, has been their Achilles' heel. History has not been kind to PSV in away games against German opposition, a trend they aim to reverse in Dortmund.
The tactical battle between Terzić and Bosz will be intriguing, given their contrasting philosophies and the stakes involved. Dortmund, with their back against the wall domestically, view the Champions League as a beacon of hope, a chance to salvage their season with European success. Their track record in the competition, especially after avoiding defeat in the first leg of a knockout tie, adds an extra layer of intrigue.
PSV, buoyed by their domestic form and the first-leg result, will look to exploit Dortmund's vulnerabilities that have been on show regularly in the Bundesliga. The key for PSV lies in breaking their poor away form in the knockout rounds and overcoming the historical hurdle of winning in Germany. For Dortmund, the focus will be on leveraging their home advantage and translating their group stage form into knockout success.
Bundesliga 
Dutch Eredivisie 
