Brandt on Essen win: “Across the 90 minutes there was a lot of chaos”

Here’s what second-half substitute Julian Brandt had to say after their Pokal victory.

Speaking to DAZN reporters after their 1-0 win over Rot-Weiss Essen tonight, Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Brandt gave his reaction to how the game unfolded. 

“Across the 90 minutes there was a lot of chaos. Our plan was to control the game and score more goals [than one] but in the end there was a lot of chaos and possession on both sides.

“[There was] not many clear chances on our side. I mean, this is normal when you have a cup game and play against a third division team. Every chance [they create or prevent] will be celebrated. 

“In the end, I wouldn’t say we did the minimum [to advance] but we managed to reach the next round and that’s all that matters,” the attacking midfielder said. 

The 29-year-old was subsequently asked about Essen’s chances – notably two in the first-half for Ramien Safi which were saved by Kobel – and how Dortmund defended on the night. 

“Like in the last 10 minutes, we had to defend better. It’s [the first-half chances Essen got] because of the chaos of the game. Sometimes they had some crosses with a lot of people inside the box and [it was dangerous].

“They had two big chances against us, [but aside from that] we defended quite okay in the end. We have to do better, but I’ve played so many cup games and it’s always like this in the first round. The main thing is we’re into the second round,” Brandt added. 

While DfB-Pokal action takes a back seat for the time being, Niko Kovač’s side must regather quickly and prepare for their Bundesliga opener against St.Pauli this Saturday, August 23.