Dortmund's Felix Nmecha Faces Weeks Out Due To Injury Before Shakhtar Clash

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Borussia Dortmund's interim manager, Mike Tullberg, announced that midfielder Felix Nmecha will miss several weeks due to an injury. This comes ahead of their Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk. Nmecha sustained the injury in the 12th minute during Dortmund's 2-2 Bundesliga draw against Werder Bremen. The 24-year-old has contributed three goals and two assists in 27 matches this season.

To compensate for Nmecha's absence, Dortmund has recalled Salih Ozcan from his loan at Wolfsburg. The Turkish defensive midfielder joined Wolfsburg on a temporary basis last summer. His return aims to bolster Dortmund's midfield options as they navigate the remainder of the season.

Dortmund currently sits 14th in the Champions League standings with four wins and three losses from seven games. While their chances for direct entry into the last 16 are slim, they have secured at least a playoff spot. Last year's finalists aim to improve their position in the upcoming matches.

Centre-back Waldemar Anton and striker Serhou Guirassy are set to be available for Dortmund's final league phase fixture. Guirassy has been instrumental this season, contributing directly to nine goals in seven Champions League appearances, including seven goals and two assists.

Following Nuri Sahin's departure after a defeat to Bologna, Tullberg stepped up as interim coach. This marked his first Champions League game as manager after six years in various roles at Dortmund. "I'm grateful for the trust and have worked here for six years in various roles," said Tullberg, expressing his commitment to the club.

Tullberg is optimistic about facing Shakhtar Donetsk, who are currently 27th in the table with seven points from four losses, two wins, and a draw. Despite Shakhtar's strong possession game, Tullberg believes focusing on Dortmund's strengths will increase their chances of victory.

Historical Edge Over Shakhtar

Dortmund boasts an unbeaten record against Shakhtar in European competitions (three wins and one draw). Their most recent encounter saw them eliminate Shakhtar from the 2012-13 Champions League last 16 stage. As they prepare for another meeting, both teams aim to secure playoff positions.

The top eight teams from the league phase advance directly to the last 16, while those ranked ninth to 24th enter playoffs next month. With strategic adjustments and key players returning, Dortmund hopes to maintain their competitive edge as they progress through this crucial phase of the tournament.