Borussia Dortmund remained top of the Bundesliga with a 1-0 win at Stuttgart, surviving their first seriously demanding test of the campaign. Maximilian Beier scored the only goal after 70 minutes, while the return of Konstantinos Karetsas gave Niko Kovac’s side the attacking clarity they had lacked for much of the afternoon.
Dortmund’s perfect start is intact, but this was not a fluent display. Chances were scarce before the interval. BVB were too rigid in possession and repeatedly sent crosses towards Stuttgart goalkeeper Fabian Bredlow, who dealt confidently with them and came out well to punch clear.
Stuttgart created little themselves. Deniz Undav was unable to capitalise after a mistake by Dortmund defender Aaron Anselmino Gadou, and the home side struggled to turn their possession into sustained pressure.
Karetsas changed the rhythm after coming on in the 62nd minute. The Greek midfielder had been a concern after suffering circulatory problems against Hoffenheim, but looked fully recovered here. His left foot and movement between the lines began to open spaces in a match that had been stuck.
Jobe Bellingham, again used from the bench, also made his contribution. After Karetsas had tested Bredlow, Bellingham found Beier in the 70th minute and the forward finished to put Dortmund ahead.
Karetsas then had a chance to settle the contest after Felix Nmecha led a counterattack, but fired wide. Dortmund did not need a second goal. Kovac’s team defended cleanly through the closing stages and took three points from Stuttgart to preserve their 100 per cent Bundesliga record.
