Four Yellow Cards and One Red
Controversy, VAR, and Drama: Dortmund’s Controversial Victory (Photos)
Dortmund secured a late goal against Hoffenheim, keeping their Champions League qualification hopes alive, which Hoffenheim players strongly protested.
Borussia Dortmund continued their impressive form with a dramatic late goal, securing a 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim, keeping their European qualification hopes alive. Under Nico Kovač, Dortmund has collected 13 points in their last five matches but knows any slip-up could change their fate.
In this match, Serhou Guirassy (20′, after VAR review), Julian Brandt (74′) with a spectacular goal, and Waldemar Anton (90+5′) scored for Dortmund. Guirassy also missed a penalty in the 34th minute. For Hoffenheim, Adam Hložek (61′) and Pavel Kadeřábek (90+1′) twice equalized.
In the final minutes, after Dortmund scored the third goal to lead 3-2, a controversial scene unfolded in the penalty area. Hoffenheim goalkeeper Oliver Baumann rushed forward for a corner and collided with Dortmund’s Karney Chukwumeka, who struck Baumann in the face with his knee, leaving the goalkeeper unconscious for moments.
Hoffenheim players strongly believed a clear foul had occurred and demanded a VAR review. However, after reviewing the footage, VAR ruled no penalty, and Dortmund’s goal stood. This decision infuriated Hoffenheim, leading to four yellow cards and a red card for their coach, Ralph Kröhn.
Despite the controversy, the result remained unchanged, and Dortmund secured a dramatic 3-2 victory. With this win, Dortmund stays on track for Champions League qualification, though they know any slip-up could be costly.