Bundesliga Round 3: Dortmund Faces Off in Defensive Derby, Leverkusen Feeling the Pressure

The third round of the 2024-2025 Bundesliga season is shaping up to be a highly anticipated one, with two major storylines unfolding: Borussia Dortmund faces Heidenheim in a defensive battle, and reigning champions Bayer Leverkusen are grappling with newfound struggles as they contend with heightened attention from opponents.

Dortmund and Heidenheim: Defensive Battle Awaits

Heading into the third matchday, Borussia Dortmund and Heidenheim are the only two Bundesliga teams yet to concede a goal this season. Both sides have displayed solid defensive organization in their opening matches, but all eyes will be on this fixture to see which team will falter first. Given the defensive prowess of both sides, it’s likely that this game could also see them both finally appear on the goals conceded leaderboard.

Dortmund’s season has gotten off to a somewhat stuttering start. They were held to a 0-0 draw by Werder Bremen in the previous round, missing the chance to secure back-to-back wins. Despite boasting a strong attacking lineup, Dortmund struggled to break through Bremen's defense, with most of their shots either blocked or off target. The team’s slow tempo in attack was evident as they rarely carved open the opposing defense. Ironically, Bremen seemed more dangerous on the counterattack, creating multiple chances and forcing Dortmund to scramble defensively.

The match also saw some worrying signs for Dortmund’s defensive stability. Left-back Nico Schlotterbeck received a red card, while three other left-sided defenders — including first-team starters and substitutes — all picked up yellow cards. This left-back dilemma will be a concern for manager Edin Terzić as they prepare to face Heidenheim, especially given that Schlotterbeck will now be unavailable for the upcoming game.

Heidenheim, on the other hand, are off to a flying start, defying expectations. Last season's surprise package secured a spot in the UEFA Conference League after finishing eighth, and they’ve begun this season with two straight wins, sitting at the top of the Bundesliga table on goal difference. The fact that Heidenheim is leading a table featuring the likes of Bayern Munich and Leverkusen after two rounds is nothing short of remarkable.

Much of Heidenheim's early success can be attributed to their shrewd summer transfer business. One standout acquisition is 19-year-old attacking midfielder Paul Wanner, who joined on loan from Bayern Munich. The teenager has wasted no time making an impact, scoring four goals and providing two assists across all competitions this season. Wanner has been a revelation in the Heidenheim attack, drawing comparisons to Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz with his technical ability and creativity. However, Wanner’s left-footedness and superior physical attributes have some pundits suggesting he may possess even more flair and potential than Wirtz.

Given their defensive strength and potent counterattacking play, Heidenheim will likely stick to a similar game plan when they face Dortmund. They are expected to adopt a defensive strategy and look to capitalize on any mistakes Dortmund might make. This tactical approach has been their bread and butter so far this season, and a 2-2 draw could be on the cards if both teams trade blows in a tight contest.

Leverkusen Under Pressure: Can They Handle Being the Defending Champions?

For Bayer Leverkusen, the situation is quite different. After winning their first Bundesliga title in over two decades last season, the pressure has been immense for Xabi Alonso’s side to replicate their success. However, the start of the season has exposed some cracks, as the team has already conceded five goals in just two matches — the second-highest tally in the league so far.

Leverkusen’s opening matches have suggested that their status as defending champions has made them a target for other teams. Opponents are preparing extensively for games against Alonso's men, and as a result, Leverkusen have struggled to assert their dominance on the pitch. Although the squad retained key players like Florian Wirtz and manager Xabi Alonso, the intense focus from rivals this season is clearly affecting their performance. Their defense, in particular, has been shaky, leaving the team vulnerable to counterattacks.

In their previous outing, Leverkusen secured a hard-fought 3-2 win, but they were far from convincing at the back. This lack of defensive solidity has raised concerns about whether they can realistically challenge for the title again this season, especially with every team now gunning for them. While Leverkusen still have the quality to finish in the top four, their title defense already looks to be on shaky ground.

Their upcoming match against Hoffenheim won’t make things any easier. Hoffenheim have been relatively solid in their opening two games, sitting comfortably in mid-table with three points. In their first match of the season, Croatian playmaker Andrej Kramarić delivered a stunning performance, scoring two goals and assisting another in a 3-1 victory against newly promoted Kiel. Kramarić’s form has been inconsistent on the international stage, but his club performances suggest he remains a key figure for Hoffenheim.

However, Hoffenheim nearly squandered their 3-1 lead in that match, despite having an extra man on the field after Kiel were reduced to ten players. This near-collapse will be a red flag for Hoffenheim coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, who will want to tighten things up defensively ahead of Leverkusen’s visit.

In their second match, Hoffenheim fell to a 2-1 defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt, a team that clearly outclassed them in terms of overall squad depth and quality. Despite Kramarić's continued good form, Hoffenheim struggled to cope with Frankfurt’s attacking intensity, leaving them vulnerable in key moments. Matarazzo will need to find a way to keep his team organized and focused if they are to stand a chance against Leverkusen.

Leverkusen’s form is raising alarm bells, especially with the specter of players returning from international duty looming over their upcoming fixture. National team commitments often disrupt club form, and with key players likely fatigued or out of rhythm, Leverkusen could struggle to find their usual fluidity. Their defense, already showing signs of fragility, could be even more vulnerable following the international break.

Despite the adversity, Leverkusen remain favorites to win against Hoffenheim, given their superior squad depth and attacking talent. However, the reigning champions will need to overcome their defensive frailties and regain some of the momentum that saw them lift the trophy last season. Hoffenheim, buoyed by their home crowd, will be looking to take advantage of any lapses in concentration from Leverkusen and could potentially snatch a point if they play with discipline.

Leverkusen's Long-Term Prospects: Can They Remain Competitive?

Leverkusen’s struggles this season aren’t solely confined to their defensive issues. On paper, they have a squad capable of competing for a top-four finish, but the extra attention from opponents and the tactical adjustments teams are making when facing them have complicated matters. Leverkusen’s ability to cope with the expectations of being champions will likely define their campaign.

While the club’s management worked hard to retain Alonso and star midfielder Wirtz, the squad depth may still be a concern, especially with European fixtures adding to the already packed domestic calendar. Should Leverkusen fail to find consistency in their performances, the value of their key players could take a hit, potentially leaving the club with fewer options in the transfer market next summer.

Ultimately, Leverkusen’s season is at a critical juncture. If they can weather this early storm and build on their strengths, they can still finish in the top four. However, with every Bundesliga team targeting them as champions, their path to another title is filled with obstacles. Hoffenheim will be a stern test, and it remains to be seen whether Leverkusen can rise to the occasion.

For now, Leverkusen may not be thinking about defending their title, but rather about securing crucial points in the battle for European places.