Serhou Guirassy scored twice and added an own goal as Borussia Dortmund began their UEFA Champions League campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Villarreal.
The Guinean striker endured a frustrating night for long periods, but he eventually became the key figure in a thrilling contest. His two goals helped Dortmund secure all three points before his late own goal gave Villarreal a chance to fight back.
Dortmund started brightly but struggled to turn their early pressure into clear chances. Villarreal, meanwhile, looked dangerous on the counter and created several good opportunities.
Georges Mikautadze missed a huge chance from close range, while Tajon Buchanan forced Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel into an important save. The hosts were fortunate to reach halftime without falling behind.
Dortmund finally broke the deadlock eight minutes after the restart. Maximilian Beier sent a dangerous cross into the area, and Renato Veiga inadvertently redirected the ball into his own net.
Villarreal responded quickly and deservedly levelled in the 67th minute. Santiago Mourino caught Kobel out with a clever near post header, just moments after the Dortmund goalkeeper had received treatment.
Kobel responded immediately. The goalkeeper produced a fine save to push Buchanan’s powerful effort over the crossbar.
Dortmund then went close at the other end, although Guirassy and Beier got in each other’s way as they tried to finish a Marcel Sabitzer cross.
Guirassy Decides a Thrilling Champions League Contest
Guirassy marked his 100th appearance for Dortmund with a decisive contribution. After struggling to find his rhythm earlier in the match, he finally restored Dortmund’s lead in the 80th minute.
Fabio Silva delivered the ball across the face of goal, allowing Guirassy to arrive at the right moment and tap home.
The goal continued his impressive Champions League record. Since the start of the 2024 to 25 season, Guirassy has directly contributed to 26 goals in 25 Champions League appearances. Only Erling Haaland has a better record during that period.
Guirassy then completed his brace from the penalty spot three minutes later. Mourino fouled him during a corner, giving Dortmund the opportunity to regain control.
The striker made no mistake, scoring his 64th goal for Dortmund and putting the hosts 3-1 ahead.
However, Villarreal refused to surrender. Kobel made another save, but the ball rebounded off Guirassy’s face and into the Dortmund net, giving the visitors renewed hope.
Villarreal pushed hard during stoppage time and almost snatched an equaliser in the fifth minute of added time. Veiga found space close to goal, but his effort took a deflection and went narrowly wide.
Dortmund held on through the final moments to secure a hard fought 3-2 victory. The result gives them an ideal start to their European campaign, while Villarreal will regret the missed chances that could have changed the outcome.
