Dortmund’s 11‑point cushion means they can afford to play out a 1‑2‑3, but the pressure of a Signal Iduna Park home‑away shift forces their midfield to stay tight. With Guirassy already 14 goals and Ryerson’s 12 assists, the BVB back‑line must lock down Freiburg’s flank‑attacking trio, cutting off the transition threat that Matanovic could exploit if the press falters. Freiburg, sitting eighth with a –4 goal difference, will lean on high pressing and quick counter‑passes from the wings; a single set‑piece mistake could tilt the momentum in their favour. Freiburg’s last outing against Dortmund was a 1‑1 draw, their most recent defeat in a Bundesliga fixture, showing they can absorb pressure but struggle to finish. If Dortmund’s possession remains dominant and they control the tempo in midfield, they will dictate the rhythm and use their travel edge to push early. However, the German tournament nerves will test whether Dortmund can stay composed in the first 45 minutes or if Freiburg’s disciplined shape will buy them a surprise edge before the whistle blows.