The Champions League matchday 8 encounter between Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan took place at Signal Iduna Park on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 03:00 WIB. Inter Milan emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, courtesy of late decisive goals, securing an important result as both clubs progress to the knockout play-offs.
Inter’s breakthrough came in the 81st minute when Federico Dimarco delivered a stunning free-kick, opening the scoring against the home side. The victory was sealed in stoppage time by Andy Diouf, who converted a well-placed finish in the 90+4 minute, leaving Dortmund unable to respond.
The win saw Inter Milan finish the group stage in 10th place, while Borussia Dortmund ended 17th in the table. Despite their lower rankings, both sides advanced to the Champions League play-off round, demonstrating the competitive balance of the group stage.
Dimarco’s Influence and Inter’s Command
Federico Dimarco was the standout performer for Inter Milan, proving to be the key figure in both attack and defense. His influence extended beyond the scoreboard, as he provided stability on the left flank while contributing significantly to the team’s offensive movements.
The Italian full-back showcased his versatility, excelling as a two-way player. Dimarco frequently surged forward to support Inter’s attacks, yet remained disciplined in maintaining defensive shape. His awareness and positioning ensured that Dortmund found it difficult to exploit spaces on his side of the pitch.
Dimarco’s free-kick in the 81st minute was a turning point. With precision and composure, he bent the ball past the Dortmund wall and goalkeeper, sending a clear message that Inter’s late pressure could produce decisive moments. This goal shifted momentum, forcing the home side to chase the game and creating spaces for Inter to exploit in counter-attacks.
Midfield Mastery with Mkhitaryan
Inter’s control in the midfield was equally crucial to the win. Henrikh Mkhitaryan, facing his former club, orchestrated play effectively, dictating tempo and ensuring smooth ball circulation throughout the match. The Armenian playmaker was instrumental in transitioning play from defense to attack, maintaining balance in a game that had become increasingly intense in the closing stages.
Mkhitaryan’s ability to win duels and retain possession under pressure allowed Inter to manage Dortmund’s attacking threats while capitalizing on spaces left behind. His combination of experience and vision provided Inter with the composure needed to maintain their lead until the final whistle.
Key Moments and Tactical Takeaways
The Dortmund vs Inter clash highlighted how fine margins, particularly set-piece execution, can determine outcomes in high-stakes matches. Dimarco’s free-kick not only provided the opening goal but also disrupted Dortmund’s rhythm, showcasing the value of individual brilliance in a team framework.
Andy Diouf’s stoppage-time goal further emphasized Inter’s strategic patience. By exploiting defensive gaps and maintaining composure under pressure, Inter ensured a clean sheet while solidifying their psychological advantage heading into the play-offs.
Defensively, Inter remained compact and disciplined, resisting Dortmund’s attempts to regain control. The coordination between Dimarco, Mkhitaryan, and the central defensive unit created a resilient defensive structure that frustrated Dortmund throughout the second half.
Man of the Match: Federico Dimarco
Federico Dimarco was rightfully awarded Man of the Match for his decisive contributions. His ability to influence the game in critical moments, combine defensive solidity with attacking support, and deliver a match-winning free-kick underscores his growing importance to Inter Milan.
Dimarco’s performance is a reminder that modern full-backs must excel both offensively and defensively. His control of the left flank, creativity in attacking scenarios, and disciplined defensive positioning exemplify the qualities required at the highest level of European competition.
Looking Ahead
With the group stage concluded, Inter Milan now shifts focus to the Champions League play-offs, where tactical discipline and individual moments of brilliance will be key. Dimarco’s form provides a boost to Inter’s ambitions, signaling that the team possesses both the leadership and skill to progress deep into the tournament.
Borussia Dortmund, despite the loss, also advances, but the defeat underlines areas requiring refinement. Defensive lapses and vulnerability to set-pieces were exploited by Inter, which will serve as a learning point for the German side as they prepare for the next phase.
The match between Dortmund and Inter demonstrates how European football can be decided by precision, tactical awareness, and individual moments of inspiration. Federico Dimarco’s free-kick and overall contribution exemplify the impact a single player can have in shaping a team’s journey through the Champions League.
Inter Milan fans can take confidence from the victory as their team heads into the knockout rounds, equipped with momentum, tactical cohesion, and Dimarco’s standout performances. Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund faces the challenge of regrouping and tightening defensive weaknesses before the decisive play-off encounters.
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