Dortmund Squander 3-1 Lead as St. Pauli Snatch Late Draw

HAMBURG, Aug 23 (Reuters) – Borussia Dortmund led 3-1 but gave up two goals in the last four minutes. They ended with a 3-3 draw against FC St. Pauli in their Bundesliga opener on Saturday.

Serhou Guirassy put the visitors ahead in the 34th minute. He headed in a perfect cross from Marcel Sabitzer at the far post. Guirassy had his penalty saved by St. Pauli’s goalkeeper, Nikola Vasilj, just before half-time. Then, Dortmund increased their lead. Waldemar Anton scored from a free kick flicked on in the 67th minute. Julian Brandt, a substitute, made it 3-0 in the 74th minute. This put Dortmund in a strong position.

Yet St. Pauli mounted a late comeback. Danel Sinani scored a penalty in the 86th minute after Fillipo Mané was sent off for a foul. Then, just three minutes later, captain Eric Smith shocked the visitors with a long-range strike. This goal secured a memorable point for the home team.

Dortmund coach Niko Kovac lamented his side’s inability to defend their lead. ““We cannot give up winning positions so easily,” he said. ““The red card didn’t help, but we have experienced players who know how to close out games.”

St. Pauli, at Millerntor-Stadion, celebrated a tough win. Coach Alexander Blessin praised his players for their resilience. ““To come back twice against such a strong opponent shows great character,” he said.

The draw gives Dortmund one point from their first match. St. Pauli also earns a point at home after a thrilling game.