Borussia Dortmund secured a dominant 2-0 home victory over Atalanta, with Serhou Guirassy both scoring and assisting in a decisive Champions League encounter.
The highly anticipated UEFA Champions League clash at Signal Iduna Park on February 17, 2026, saw Borussia Dortmund host Atalanta. Dortmund, known for their vibrant home atmosphere, looked to seize an advantage against an Atalanta side celebrated for their relentless European approach.
The game exploded into action just moments after kickoff. In the 3rd minute, Julian Ryerson delivered a precise assist to Serhou Guirassy, who made no mistake. Guirassy slotted the ball home, sending the Yellow Wall into raptures.
Atalanta tried to find their rhythm but struggled against Dortmund's early momentum. The first caution of the match came in the 18th minute, with Dortmund's Luca Reggiani earning a yellow card for a foul.
As the first half neared its conclusion, the referee was busy. Atalanta defenders O. Kossounou and B. Djimsiti both received yellow cards in the 40th minute for separate infringements, highlighting growing frustration.
Dortmund capitalised on this period of disarray. Striker Mahmoud Beier doubled the lead in the 42nd minute, expertly finishing a pass from the influential Guirassy. Atalanta’s Gianluca Scamacca also saw a yellow card in first-half stoppage time.
At halftime, Atalanta found themselves with a two-goal shortfall. Manager Gian Piero Gasperini needed a significant tactical adjustment and increased attacking intent to mount a comeback in the second period.
Atalanta indeed made double substitutions at the start of the second half, bringing on Isak Hien and Nikola Krstović. However, it was Dortmund who collected the first second-half card, with W. Anton cautioned in the 48th minute.
The second half developed into a more cagey affair. Both teams made further substitutions to maintain energy and influence the game, with Dortmund introducing Christoph Chukwuemeka and Karim Adeyemi in the 70th minute.
Despite Atalanta’s efforts to push forward and create chances, Dortmund's defence remained resolute. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made three important saves, ensuring a clean sheet for the home side.
Dortmund's clinical finishing was a decisive factor, converting two goals from just two shots on target and an xG of 2.09. Atalanta, despite 54% ball possession and three shots on target, managed only 0.46 xG, underscoring their offensive struggles.
This commanding 2-0 victory gives Borussia Dortmund a crucial advantage heading into the second leg. They successfully secured a valuable clean sheet and two vital away goals will be needed by Atalanta.
