Borussia Dortmund: three straight wins and strong record at home

Niko Kovač’s men responded impressively after their 2-1 defeat to Bayern Munich in the German Super Cup, quickly putting that setback behind them. Dortmund followed up with three consecutive victories, beating Hamburg 2-0, HEBC 5-0 and Hoffenheim 3-2.

The Black and Yellows have also been performing well on home soil, winning three of their last four competitive fixtures at Signal Iduna Park while scoring 10 goals. Their previous encounter with Villarreal provides another reason for optimism, as Dortmund comfortably defeated the Spanish side 4-0 last year.

Villarreal: winless opening under new leadership

Iñigo Pérez arrived during the summer, but his Villarreal side have struggled to find their rhythm early in the campaign. The Yellow Submarine began with draws against Racing and Atletico Madrid before suffering defeats to Alavés and Deportivo.

Their most recent 3-2 loss at home to Deportivo was especially frustrating. Villarreal took the lead but were unable to protect their advantage and ultimately ended up empty-handed. After four competitive matches, Pérez’s team are still searching for their first victory of the season.

Probable line-ups

Borussia Dortmund: Kobel, Gado, Anton, Svensson, Ryerson, Nmecha, Bellingham, Beier, Karetsas, Sabitzer, Guirassy.

Villarreal: Júnior, Mourinho, Costa, Veiga, Romero, Pépé, Gueye, Comesaña, Buchanan, Mikautadze, Moreno.

Match facts and head-to-head record

Borussia Dortmund have won each of their last three competitive matches.

Villarreal remain without a victory after four competitive fixtures this season.

Dortmund recorded a commanding 4-0 victory over Villarreal in November 2025.