Niklas Süle returned to Borussia Dortmund’s starting lineup for the first time in two months, only to suffer a knee injury and concede a penalty in the 37th minute against Hoffenheim.
How Süle’s return ended in injury and a penalty
In the 37th minute, Andrej Kramaric shot from inside the box. Süle slipped, overextending his left knee as he fell. While on the ground, he extended his arm and was struck by Kramaric’s follow-through. Referee Daniel Siebert initially allowed play to continue, but after VAR review, he awarded a penalty. Kramaric converted to develop it 1–0. Süle left the pitch immediately and was replaced by Ramy Bensebaini.
What the sources agree on about the sequence
Both sources confirm Süle had not started since the 4–0 win over Mainz on February 13. They agree the injury occurred during the same incident that led to the penalty, with Süle visibly hurting his knee and leaving for the dressing room. Both note the penalty was reviewed by VAR and confirmed by Siebert after an on-field check.
Where the reports differ on Süle’s future
The second source adds that Süle will undergo further examination on Sunday, with the severity of the knee injury still unclear. It also suggests this may have been his final appearance for Dortmund, noting his contract expires in summer and will not be renewed after joining on a free transfer from Bayern Munich in 2023. The first source does not mention these details about his exit or medical follow-up.
How Hoffenheim secured the win
Serhou Guirassy equalized for Dortmund in the second half, finishing from 18 meters after a Bensebaini assist. But Hoffenheim won it in stoppage time when Julian Ryerson was judged to have handled the ball in the box following a VAR check. Kramaric scored his second penalty to complete the 2–1 victory, marking Hoffenheim’s second penalty of the match.
What the result means for the title race
The loss leaves Dortmund with two consecutive defeats, following their 0–1 loss to Leverkusen the previous week. Bayern Munich now hold the first match point for the Bundesliga title and can clinch it with a point against Stuttgart on Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
What Dortmund’s attacking options reveal
Guirassy, who has a €35 million release clause (~$38 million), is reportedly open to leaving for the right offer, having come off the bench to score the equalizer. Meanwhile, Fisnik Asllani, 23, is seen internally as a leading candidate to replace Süle, with Dortmund’s fresh sporting director having previously worked with him at Elversberg, though other clubs are also interested and Asllani has not ruled out staying at Hoffenheim.
Is Süle’s Dortmund career over?
It is possible, as sources indicate his contract will not be renewed and he may have played his final match, though the extent of his injury remains undetermined.
Can Bayern win the title this weekend?
Yes, Bayern can secure the Bundesliga title with a draw or win against Stuttgart on Saturday.
