Dortmund, sitting in second place and chasing leaders Bayern Munich, started strongly. In the 10th minute, Maximilian Beier opened the scoring with a clinical first-time finish from Julian Ryerson's low cross, giving the visitors an early lead.
Frankfurt fought back and earned a penalty in the 22nd minute after a foul in the box. Can Uzun stepped up and converted coolly to level the scores at 1-1 heading into halftime.
The second half brought more intensity. Dortmund regained the advantage in the 68th minute through Felix Nmecha, whose low shot deflected off a defender and nestled into the net. But the hosts responded almost immediately—new signing Younes Ebnoutalib (on debut) equalized just three minutes later in the 71st, powering home after good link-up play involving substitute Arnaud Kalimuendo.
As the match entered stoppage time, it seemed Frankfurt had snatched all three points. Former Dortmund midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud swept a brilliant finish off the upright in the 92nd minute, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.
However, Dortmund refused to surrender. In the 96th minute, Marcel Sabitzer whipped in a dangerous cross from the right. The ball bounced off defender Rasmus Kristensen and fell kindly to substitute Carney Chukwuemeka, who bundled it home to rescue a dramatic equalizer.
This result kept Dortmund in second place with an extended unbeaten run, while Frankfurt missed a chance to climb higher but showed their attacking threat against top opposition.
The match showcased the Bundesliga's reputation for entertaining, high-scoring football—perfect way to kick off 2026!
Final Score: Eintracht Frankfurt 3-3 Borussia Dortmund Goals:
- Eintracht Frankfurt: Can Uzun (22' pen), Younes Ebnoutalib (71'), Mahmoud Dahoud (90'+2)
- Borussia Dortmund: Maximilian Beier (10'), Felix Nmecha (68'), Carney Chukwuemeka (90'+6)
What a way to start the year—pure football entertainment!