Preview of the Friendly Against Rot-Weiss Oberhausen

On Saturday, July 18, 2026, Borussia Dortmund will face Rot-Weiss Oberhausen at the stadium. This friendly match is more than just an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season; it is a chance for coach Ole Burok to test his tactical ideas and assess the form of his key players.

Key Players to Watch

For BVB, it will be crucial that some of last season's stars shine once again. Players like Julian Brandt and Donyell Malen, who were often praised for their creative abilities last season, need to showcase their form. Brandt could assume a central role in the attacking midfield, where he can demonstrate his game intelligence and passing accuracy. Malen, on the other hand, will look to stretch the play on the wing, utilizing his speed to put pressure on the opposing defense.

Another player to keep an eye on is the young new signing, whose name fans are eagerly anticipating. His debut could be pivotal in leaving an impression that he will be a valuable addition to the team.

Tactical Considerations

In terms of tactics, Burok might opt for a 4-2-3-1 system that offers both defensive stability and offensive flexibility. Two defensive midfielders will be needed to protect the backline while initiating play from deep. This could provide the ideal platform for players like Emre Can, who can be crucial both defensively and offensively.

The wingers, particularly Malen and the potential new signing, will try to break through the opponent's defense. The strategy is likely to focus on playing down the flanks and delivering crosses into the box, where strikers like Sébastien Haller will be poised to strike. The game could also serve as an opportunity to test new combinations in attack, especially the link-up between Brandt and Haller, which showed promise last season.

Conclusion

The friendly against Rot-Weiss Oberhausen will be an exciting opportunity for Borussia Dortmund to set the stage for the new season. Fans can look forward to seeing how Burok positions his players and what tactics he employs. It is the first step on a long journey, and expectations are high that BVB will deliver a strong performance to build excitement for the upcoming season.