FC Schalke vs Borussia Dortmund: 5 key players in Revierderby
By Josh Sippie
3. Bastian Oczipka
Bastian Oczipka is about as traditional a fullback as you’re going to find. Sure, he dabbled at wingback when Domenico Tedesco was here, but Oczipka is that fullback who doesn’t boast a lot of speed, has a pretty straightforward attacking strategy and focuses on defense. Which is just fine. Until that defense falters.
Against Hoffenheim, it faltered.
While his side were playing on the front foot for the gross majority of the match, Oczipka in turn struggled to handle the counter because of his lack of speed alone. It’s hard to set up camp around midfield and then have to spin and chase opposing counters.
Especially as a traditional fullback.
Dortmund will have no mercy for Oczipka. He’s facing Jadon Sancho, among others. But the one benefit that Oczipka will likely enjoy is a different style of match. I can’t envision FC Schalke controlling possession (though often aimless possession) against Dortmund as they did against Hoffenheim. Meaning that Oczipka will have a better chance of being in his element.
No. 2 is next.