"Hummels! That was a decisive play! He prevented Bale from entering the penalty area and threatening their goal!"
Hummels' fierce tackle also ignited a fierce cheer from the entire stadium.
Borussia Dortmund fans responded to his excellent tackle with the loudest shouts.
Srna quickly stepped forward to throw the sideline ball.
He held the ball, loudly directing his teammates to receive it, and seeing that Isco and Kaka were both marked, he could only throw the ball forward towards Bale.
Bale immediately turned to break through, but as he turned, he was grabbed by his jersey by Durm, and after successive intense pulls downwards, Bale fell to the ground helplessly.
"Hey!"
Bale sat on the ground, raising his hand, signaling to the Referee.
But the Referee did not look at him, instead signaling for play to continue.
Bale cursed 'shit', got up, and immediately chased back, carrying some emotion at that moment.
After all, being dispossessed the first time was frustrating enough, and now being fouled repeatedly by Durm, with the Referee not blowing the whistle, made him very irritated.
Suker also saw this scene from afar; he knew that Borussia Dortmund's defensive methods carried some aggressiveness, but this was also understandable, as it was their home, and their actions would be bolder.
After all, no one wants to lose at home, so they will play more intensely.
Borussia Dortmund's counter-attacking was handled very well; from the details, it could be seen that they were always able to send the ball to relatively weak defensive areas, thereby tying up Real Madrid's defense.
Especially after Reus received the ball, a sudden feint shook off Isco's defense, and then he immediately slipped the ball forward.
"This ball…"
The German commentator was about to jump up; this ball was headed for Aubameyang, and only needed to pass through Real Madrid's backline for it to be a one-on-one opportunity.
But at this moment, Ramos suddenly lowered his body and stretched out his leg horizontally; he touched the ball with his toe, just enough to deflect it towards Pepe.
Pepe did not hesitate; without time to process, he met the ball and sent it directly forward to Kaka's feet.
"Oh~~ Ramos!!"
The German commentator's tone was slightly regretful, but he had to admit that Ramos' interception was crucial.
"In the opening phase of this match, both central defenders performed the best; they provided security for their teams with stable defense, and also made the counter-attacks smoother!"
After Kaka received the ball, he first glanced at Bale.
Bale kept calling for a pass, clearly somewhat agitated.
Kaka thought for a moment and finally sent the ball to Suker on the left side.
It wasn't that Bale wasn't trustworthy, but he was a bit too emotional right now and needed to calm down.
If they were hit by successive counter-attacks, their backline would also be overwhelmed.
And compared to Bale, Suker was more reliable, and also one of their key players, so at this moment, he trusted Suker more.
After Suker received the ball, he did not blindly push forward.
He clearly felt that the current rhythm was developing in Borussia Dortmund's favor, and Real Madrid was playing somewhat passively.
It wasn't that they couldn't play at a fast pace, but they couldn't play under Borussia Dortmund's lead; if they did, they would only become more passive.
Therefore, Suker actively slowed down the pace; he did not attack forward, but controlled the ball, using his skill to shake off Şahin's harassment and move into a relatively open area.
Suker stopped the ball steadily, then slightly lowered his hands.
'Calm down!'
Seeing Suker's action, his teammates, who were desperately rushing towards Suker to receive the ball, all stopped.
They slowly exhaled, oxygen filling their chests, and their somewhat muddled minds became clear.
Seeing his teammates recover, Suker then passed the ball back to Kroos.
Kroos gave Suker a thumbs-up, then began to try and regain control of the rhythm.
Klopp on the sidelines also noticed this scene, and his brows furrowed slightly.
This was not good news!
The rhythm was slowly shifting towards them; in an intense rhythm, they would perform more freely.
They could press, they could challenge, and they could even counter-attack.
But Suker clearly saw this, so he actively controlled the ball and slowed down the pace.
Klopp couldn't help but marvel at Suker's control over the game's rhythm.
This was a battle-hardened warrior's sensitivity to rhythm, and a manifestation of experience.
Real Madrid was gradually turning the rhythm around, relying on Kroos, Isco, and Kaka as three ball-holding points, with Suker's support in front, forming a diamond formation, maintaining the stability of the rhythm.
At this stage, Borussia Dortmund was still attacking intensely, but this kind of attack was not that much pressure for Real Madrid.
Especially once they stabilized the rhythm, they no longer played so passively.
"Real Madrid has gradually adjusted."
The German commentator was a bit regretful; their counter-attack should have been effective, but now that Real Madrid had reacted, the game had become somewhat bogged down again.
However, he still believed in Borussia Dortmund.
Klopp's team was known for its madness!
"They're starting to control the ball!"
Isco couldn't help but turn his head and shout.
"We can't let them continue!"
Şahin knew very well how Real Madrid would perform once they controlled the rhythm, so he was somewhat anxious.
As captain, Kehl directly roared; "Push up! One more surge from us!"
Upon hearing this, the Borussia Dortmund players surged forward like beasts, their posture so wild, like enraged wild animals.
They collectively rushed forward, putting immense pressure on Real Madrid.
But at this moment, Kroos actually retreated a few steps.
Borussia Dortmund assumed he was backing down a bit.
But the next second, after Kroos received the ball, he made a nonchalant chip pass.
The distance of this chip pass was not too far, and the arc was not large, but it just perfectly cleared Borussia Dortmund's midfield area and successfully reached Benzema's feet.
The sudden pass not only stunned Borussia Dortmund.
Even Benzema was momentarily stunned.
But he still stopped the ball steadily, and when he looked to both sides, Suker and Bale had already started at full speed.
"Counter-attack!!!!—"
Kroos roared!
Benzema jolted, almost instinctively passing the ball to the right side.
In tactical positioning, vertical breakthroughs would more often utilize Bale.
And Suker was responsible for the decisive blow.
Seeing the ball fly in front of him, Bale, full of anger, also went into full speed.
The Wales star was already known for his speed, but as he swung his arms and strode forward, Durm, who was marking him, was left a body length behind in just a blink of an eye!
"Cover! Cover!"
Durm chased frantically, shouting.
Papasthatopoulos also immediately rushed towards Bale.
But Bale did not wait for the opponent to get close; as long as he attracted the defense, he directly crossed the ball.
Bang!
The ball flew towards Borussia Dortmund's penalty area, and Suker seized the opportunity, leaping up fiercely.
But at that moment, he unexpectedly found that someone had jumped earlier than him.
Or rather, his judgment of the landing spot was a step faster.
Hummels stretched his body in the air, meeting the ball, twisting his hips, contracting his abdomen, and powerfully heading the ball with his forehead.
A standard header action.
Bang!!
The ball was cleared out again.
"Oh~~~ Hummels!! It's him again! It's him again! He once again saved Borussia Dortmund's defense!!"
The German commentator was trembling when Suker jumped.
Not only him, but Borussia Dortmund fans also held their breath.
Suker's threat in aerial duels was evident to all.
But Hummels' header clearance was perfectly timed, even judging the landing spot before Suker and completing the clearance, stifling the danger. How much morale did that boost!
The ball was headed away again, and Kehl also took the opportunity to directly kick the ball far out of bounds.
After completing the second clearance, Kehl rushed towards the penalty area.
"Come on!"
He roared at Hummels.
"You amazing guy! Look what you've done, you got to that ball before Suker! That's great! Man, you're playing great!"
Kehl was excited, and he was thrilled.
Hummels' two clearances, a superhuman performance, single-handedly defended Real Madrid's most threatening left and right wings.
How could this not be exciting?
However, compared to the excited Kehl, Hummels was calmer.
"Captain, we need to counter-attack, we need to score as soon as possible!"
Kyle was stunned for a moment, then heard Hummels say seriously, "Suker hasn't exerted himself yet. We know that this isn't his usual performance. He probably hasn't fully entered the match state, or rather, he's still observing. Once he decides to exert himself, the defense might not be able to hold on!"
Hummels was also very pleased with his two performances, but he wouldn't become arrogant because of it.
He knew very well that this wasn't Suker's usual performance.
There was no issue of a decline in form; he could only be waiting for the right moment.
This feeling was like a mountain shrouded in mist, not clearly visible, but the sense of oppression was even clearer.
Especially as the mist continuously thinned until its true face was revealed, that moment would be the real test for Borussia Dortmund.
Hummels greatly admired Suker.
He had even said in a TV interview that the player he most wanted to play with was Suker.
But precisely because of this, he would be even more vigilant and cautious.
He knew very well that this wasn't Suker's usual performance, and the difficulties would only intensify in the time to come.
Therefore, they needed to score as quickly as possible!
Only goals could bring him and them more security.
"I understand!"
Kyle immediately nodded.
Kyle also understood Hummels's meaning.
Besides, as a center-back, one is ultimately passive.
Hummels played very well, but it wasn't a suppression in direct confrontation, so once Real Madrid's attacks increased, he would also feel fatigued.
Now that Hummels was in peak form, it was best to launch an attack and score goals during this period.
Klopp looked at Hummels in a daze.
To be honest, he hadn't expected his player to perform so brilliantly.
Although he had repeatedly brainwashed Hummels, and he indeed had considerable talent, it hadn't reached this level.
It could only be said that this was an extraordinary performance!
But... it was good!
Klopp suddenly clenched his fist, vigorously waved his arm, and roared towards the field: "Counterattack! Launch a counterattack while you have the chance!"
Klopp's roar and Hummels's two clearances brought a boost in morale to Borussia Dortmund.
Suker stood on the field with his hands on his hips, shaking his head slightly.
"How annoying!"
Suker's gaze fixed on Hummels; he had to admit, the player's performance was excellent.
It was clear to see his strong fighting spirit and excellent form.
That judgment of the landing spot was the highlight.
Suker was well aware of his aerial combat ability. In a direct confrontation, Hummels couldn't be said to have no chance, but it would definitely be very difficult.
But the player had actually made a judgment in advance and appeared in the best position.
This position was even better than Suker's predicted landing spot, and it perfectly blocked Suker's position, preventing him from jumping.
Suker acknowledged Hummels's performance, but at the same time, it ignited his fighting spirit.
Challenging Suker was an honor in today's football world.
Especially defeating Suker and suppressing Suker in a match.
This was a great honor for any player.
It could not only bring traffic and Topical but also significantly increase one's market value in a short period.
Although so far, successful people were few and far between, it didn't mean there were none.
Moreover, compared to a few years ago, Suker was no longer as uncrackable.
At that time, Suker was proficient in speed, physique, explosiveness, and technique, truly a six-dimensional warrior.
But now, Suker also had some weaknesses, though they were well-covered by his rich experience.
However, challenging such a Suker was still very difficult.
But no matter how difficult, one had to try, right?
Hummels also looked at Suker, his eyes revealing a hint of eagerness.
Man-marking Suker, what a temptation that was!
If he accomplished this feat against the player who had long been hailed as the century's problem, he would definitely be able to reach a new level.
And at this moment, his own form was excellent, and Hummels's confidence also greatly increased.
The match started again!
For a full 30 minutes, both sides had offense and defense, but there wasn't a single goal.
Both sides were countering each other's moves, showcasing a high-level match.
Whether it was tactics or the players' performance, it was all displayed to the fullest.
But at the same time, pressure was constantly being exerted on the players of both sides.
The situation was somewhat deadlocked, and the resulting pressure was continuously accumulating.
And who could withstand this pressure and successfully break the deadlock, that was the key.
"Go, go, go!"
"Push up!"
"Left side!"
"I'm coming!"
Borussia Dortmund players continuously roared, igniting their fighting spirit and making themselves more excited.
Borussia Dortmund was indeed on par with Real Madrid now.
While both sides had offense and defense, they could also threaten Real Madrid's goal.
However, both sides were in a tough contest, and neither managed to score first.
As for Real Madrid's offense, they were also repeatedly interrupted by Hummels.
Of course, it wasn't just Hummels alone, but Hummels was in excellent form at this time, not only physically but also mentally very clear.
He continuously directed his teammates to defend, resisting Real Madrid's attacks again and again.
In addition, Borussia Dortmund's Goalkeeper Weidenfeller's form was also brought up.
Facing Suker's sudden long-range shot, the player barely managed to tip it out. If the Goalkeeper hadn't reacted, the ball would have already gone in.
Borussia Dortmund was still stubbornly resisting Real Madrid.
And the match time also entered the 40th minute!
Pant! Pant! Pant!
Hummels was breathing heavily.
Sweat soaked his jersey, his breathing was rapid, but his eyes were still bright.
The more he played, the more he felt his form heating up.
At the same time, this form was gradually increasing his confidence.
40 minutes!
They had continuously resisted Real Madrid's frontline for 40 minutes.
And, Suker hadn't been able to score during this time, that was the key.
They successfully curbed Suker's threat.
"Mats Hummels, let me praise this player again. This player, born in Bergisch Gladbach, Germany, has repeatedly man-marked Suker on the field. I can't believe it, he's too crazy!"
"Guys, I'm trembling with excitement right now, this match is too wonderful, Borussia Dortmund is still stubbornly resisting Real Madrid."
Bang!
The ball hit the crossbar hard and flew out of bounds.
Reus knelt on the ground, annoyedly rubbing his head.
He didn't keep the ball down! It was just a little short of a goal!
And this shot also startled Real Madrid.
"Borussia Dortmund's form is completely up!" Ancelotti said with a heavy tone.
This was not the ability Borussia Dortmund should possess; they didn't have such tenacious defense and excellent offensive ability.
But in the opening stage, successive defensive successes, especially after Hummels successfully man-marked Suker multiple times, their morale was completely mobilized.
Borussia Dortmund thrived on this kind of form.
In this state, whether it was a giant or anyone else, he could slaughter them for you!
It could be said that the situation had spread to the scenario Ancelotti least wanted to see.
Ancelotti also felt a bit guilty about this.
In the first half, he should have exerted more pressure, thinking that since it was an away game, stability was key. Who would have thought that Borussia Dortmund would get into form?
There wasn't much time left until the end of the first half.
He also needed to prepare for the second half's tactical arrangements.
Just as Ancelotti had this thought, Borussia Dortmund launched another counterattack.
And this time, the crucial thing was that Isco lost the ball in the defensive midfield position.
Borussia Dortmund immediately launched a counterattack from there. Reus directly passed the ball to Aubameyang, who chose not to dribble past players but instead made a wall pass.
Reus forced his way into the penalty area and poked the ball with his toe.
The ball went through Ramos's legs and slipped under Casillas's armpit into the goal.
44 minutes!
With only one minute left until the end of the first half, Borussia Dortmund actually scored!
Whoosh!!!!!!!!!!!!—
The entire Westfalenstadion erupted.
As the fans surged, it was like a yellow ocean.
Flags waved wildly, accompanied by the intense cheers from the stadium, as if the temperature had risen by several degrees.