Struggling Borussia Dortmund wrapped up three important points as they overcame Hoffenheim 1-0 14th round opener of the German Bundesliga.
Ilkay Guendogan's only goal of the match against Hoffenheim relieved Dortmund's relegation worries for now, as Juergen Klopp's men managed to stop the downward spiral Friday night, reports Xinhua.
The "BVB" started visibly nervous, given their unexpected situation in the table. Yet they took the reins from the kick-off against the visitors in front of an outsold Signal-Iduna Park.
After the opening period Hoffenheim gained a foothold in the game but Dortmund immediately stamped down the pressure by breaking the deadlock with 17 minutes on the clock.
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang assisted Guendogan with a pinpoint cross to the far post where the German international headed home from close range.
After the restart Hoffenheim remained short on ideas while Dortmund focussed on fast counterattacks. The hosts were on target at the 52nd when Aubameyang headed home but his goal was called offside incorrectly.
It remained a dangerous 1-0 lead but Hoffenheim lacked any penetration giving Dortmund their fourth victory of the season.
With the win the "BVB" jump from the last place to the 14th position whereas Hoffenheim stay in seventh place for the moment.
"I think we earned a deserved win. The team implemented the strategy on which we had agreed. However, we have to continue as there is still a lot to do," Dortmund coach Juergen Klopp said.
