Dortmund held by Union Berlin as Bundesliga leaders drop more points

Borussia Dortmund were held to a goalless draw by struggling Union Berlin, leaving them without a win in their past three matches in all competitions.

Dortmund remain unbeaten in the Bundesliga this season, with four wins and two draws, and moved to the top of the live standings. However, their latest failure to score means they have taken just three of their goals before half-time, compared with five in the final 15 minutes of matches.

Union, who had conceded 17 goals in their opening four league games, produced a disciplined defensive display to claim a point. All five of their Bundesliga points this season have come at home, although they remain in the relegation play-off place at this early stage of the campaign.

The first half offered little entertainment, with Dortmund enjoying plenty of possession but failing to seriously test the hosts. Clear opportunities were limited at both ends, as Union looked comfortable during the opening half-hour.

That lack of attacking threat was in contrast to Union’s recent record, with more than 3.5 goals scored in nine of their previous 10 matches. Instead, the early action was dominated by bookings, with five yellow cards shown during a scrappy opening 35 minutes.

The closest either side came to breaking the deadlock before the interval was when Kastriot Imeri’s inswinging set-piece nearly caught out Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. He reacted quickly to keep the delivery from going all the way into the net.

Dortmund began the second half with greater purpose and created their first notable chance 11 minutes after the restart. Maximilian Beier met a deep cross from Julian Ryerson first time, but his effort flew into the advertising hoardings.

Union then had a good opportunity to take the lead when Tim Skarke broke through on goal. Under pressure from the recovering defence, he could not direct his finish on target.

The match lost further momentum after a lengthy stoppage caused by an injury to Konstantinos Karetsas. Substitute Fabio Silva later sent a low ball across the face of goal, but no Union player was able to apply the finishing touch.

Dortmund also threatened late on, although teenage substitute Mathis Albert headed wide at the back post as the visitors were unable to find a way through.

The result extends Dortmund’s run without a victory to three games across all competitions, following two draws and one defeat. Union will be the more satisfied side after earning a point against the league leaders, despite remaining in the relegation play-off position.

Flashscore Man of the Match: Joane Gadou (Borussia Dortmund)