Dortmund got off to a perfect start in the Champions League group stage, defeating Villarreal 3-2 at Signal Iduna Park and getting off on the right foot in its new European campaign. The victory, however, took a back seat due to the unfortunate incident involving Konstantinos Karetsas.
The Greek attacking midfielder earned a starting spot from Nikos Kovacs and made his debut with the “Stars,” but in the 27th minute, he felt unwell and collapsed on the field, immediately requesting medical attention. Karetsas was unable to continue and was carried off on a stretcher, visibly shaken, while receiving a warm round of applause from the Dortmund fans. The young star was taken to the hospital for further examination.
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As for the match, Dortmund took the lead in the 53rd minute when Renato Veiga inadvertently sent the ball into his own net. Villarreal, however, didn’t give up and tied the game in the 66th minute with a goal by Santiago Murino.
The home team continued to press and finally found the winning goal in the 80th minute. Fabio Silva provided the assist, and Serou Girasi, from close range, sent the ball into the empty net for a 2-1 lead. The same player took the penalty kick in the 85th minute and scored, making it 3-1 and giving Kovac’s team a significant lead.
Villarreal, however, did not give up, and in the third minute of stoppage time, they pulled one back to make it 3-2, with Girassi inadvertently sending the ball into his own net. In the final moments, Nicolas Pépé had a direct free kick, but Gregor Kobel made a crucial save to secure the victory.
Thus, Dortmund celebrated a valuable three points in their season opener, on a night that left mixed emotions due to Karetsa’s condition.
*photo source: AP
