Beier’s late stunner sends Dortmund top after Frankfurt stalemate

Substitute settles a tense contest

Maximilian Beier’s late finish gave Borussia Dortmund a 1-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, ending Dortmund’s run of back-to-back Bundesliga draws and lifting them to the top of the standings, at least temporarily.

With the match still goalless in the 80th minute, Jobe Bellingham cut the ball back for fellow substitute Beier. Beier curled a right-footed shot into the far corner beyond Noah Atubolu to break the deadlock. Frankfurt pushed for an equaliser, but Dortmund held on.

Chances at both ends

Dortmund began brightly, with Serhou Guirassy forcing two early saves from Atubolu. Frankfurt grew into the first half and threatened through Younes Ebnoutalib, whose one-on-one effort was stopped by Gregor Kobel.

The visitors threatened again soon after the restart when Fares Chaïbi tested Kobel. Dortmund hit the woodwork at the other end through a Guirassy header from a corner. Beier was among the substitutes introduced by Niko Kovač as Dortmund searched for a breakthrough.

Nmecha recognised for all-action display

Felix Nmecha was named Man of the Match after an energetic performance that included attacking efforts and defensive work. Dortmund will next turn their attention to the Klassiker against Bayern Munich. Frankfurt’s late push yielded no goal, and the visitors left empty-handed.