Borussia Dortmund vs Villarreal Betting Tips 08/09

Team news and expected lineups

For the hosts, the absence of Ramy Bensebaini due to both suspension and injury forces a reshuffle in the defensive ranks, with Daniel Svensson and Joane Gadou expected to feature prominently. Filippo Mane also remains sidelined, leaving the defensive unit tested as they prepare for the European stage. Gregor Kobel is expected to start in goal, providing stability behind a backline that will need to remain alert to counter-attacks.

On the visiting side, Villarreal travel without the injured Juan Foyth, which will likely see Santiago Mourino and Pau Navarro tasked with handling Dortmund’s high-pressing front line. The expected XI includes Pape Gueye and Santi Comesana in the engine room, tasked with disrupting Dortmund’s flow. With Nicolas Pepe showing consistent attacking form recently, the visitors will look to him to provide the spark needed to unsettle the home crowd.

Form and the weight of history

Borussia Dortmund enter this match with momentum, having secured a 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga and a commanding 5-0 win in the DFB Pokal against HEBC Hamburg. Their recent record in the Champions League against these opponents is also encouraging, having recorded a 4-0 victory when the two sides met in November 2025. This history provides a psychological edge that the team hopes to leverage as they seek a strong start to the league phase.

In contrast, Villarreal arrive in Germany looking to bounce back from a difficult 3-2 defeat to Deportivo de A Coruna in LaLiga. While their recent domestic run has been testing, they have shown flashes of quality, including a 1-2 victory over Galatasaray during their pre-season preparations. They will need to find the defensive solidity that was missing in their most recent outings to survive the atmosphere at Signal Iduna Park.

A statement of intent

This match represents a significant opportunity for both clubs to establish their credentials early in the competition. For Dortmund, the focus is on making a strong statement in front of their home supporters, as noted in the club's preview. The tactical discipline shown by the midfield duo of Sabitzer and Bellingham will likely be the deciding factor in whether the home side can dominate the middle of the park and feed their dangerous forward line.