Sabitzer rescues Dortmund with late winner against Werder Bremen

Borussia Dortmund booked their place in the DFB-Pokal round of 16 after beating Werder Bremen 3-2 in a dramatic second-round clash at Signal Iduna Park. Marcel Sabitzer struck a decisive free kick in stoppage time after the visitors had fought back from two goals down to level the score.

Dortmund made a fast start, taking the lead in the sixth minute when Serhou Guirassy finished after Julian Ryerson’s delivery. Carney Chukwuemeka doubled the advantage in the 17th minute, with Jobe Bellingham providing the assist. The hosts appeared to be in control heading into half-time, but Werder returned with a much stronger performance after the break.

Niclas Füllkrug changed the game after coming off the bench. The former Dortmund striker converted a penalty in the 65th minute before scoring again three minutes later to bring Werder level at 2-2. His quick-fire double put the hosts under pressure and threatened to send the tie into extra time.

Sabitzer had the final say, however, curling a direct free kick into the net in the third minute of added time. The Austrian midfielder had entered the match as a substitute and delivered the decisive moment to send Dortmund through to the next round, while Werder were left to rue their late defeat.