Jadon Sancho, in his second game for Borussia Dortmund since rejoining the club on loan from Manchester United, played a crucial role in their 4-0 victory over FC Koln. Despite a lack of match fitness following a four-month exile from United’s first team,
Sancho showcased his skills with a lively 36-minute cameo against Darmstadt last week, providing an assist. In his first start in the second spell with the club, Sancho won a penalty early in the second half against FC Koln.
During the incident, Sancho penetrated the penalty area and got beyond defender Rasmus Cartensen, who pulled him back, resulting in a penalty. However, Germany forward Niclas Fullkrug assumed responsibility from the spot and successfully converted, putting Dortmund 2-0 ahead on 58 minutes.
Sky Germany reporter Patrick Berger revealed that Sancho pleaded with Fullkrug to allow him to take the penalty, but Fullkrug denied his request. Despite this, both players embraced during the subsequent celebrations, suggesting no hard feelings.
Dortmund continued their dominance, extending the lead to 3-0 just three minutes later with former Arsenal forward Donyell Malen scoring. Substitute Youssoufa Moukoko sealed the victory with a goal in injury time, making it 4-0. The win leveled Dortmund on points with fourth-placed RB Leipzig in the race for the final Champions League qualification place.
However, the game was not without controversy. Fans disrupted the match after just 12 minutes by throwing chocolate coins onto the pitch in protest against plans to introduce private equity investors into the Bundesliga. Both sets of fans displayed banners opposing these plans, echoing the sentiments expressed during Dortmund’s Champions League home tie against Newcastle in November.
Jadon Sancho’s impact in the game, despite not taking the penalty he won, underlines his contribution to Dortmund’s success.
The dynamic victory, coupled with the fans’ protest, adds layers of significance to the match, reflecting both on-field prowess and off-field sentiments against potential changes in the Bundesliga’s ownership structure.
