Hilden vs Borussia Dortmund II - Regionalliga - West

The Regionalliga - West returns to the home ground on August 29, 2026, where Hilden and Borussia Dortmund II will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Just as was the case in the previous meeting between the teams in April of last year, when Emery's side gave them such a scare in the Champions League tie at Villa Park, PSG were hanging on at the end.

A glance at the Regionalliga - West table tells the story: Hilden in 12th and Borussia Dortmund II in 4th, with positions to defend and places to climb. Hilden have blown hot and cold, WLLLD across their last five and a win rate of 25% that leaves room for improvement. Borussia Dortmund II have travelled reasonably well, WDWWW over their last five with a season win rate of 57.14%. The contrast in attacking output — 0.88 versus 1.86 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. A young right-back is another position City are interested in adding in, while, in terms of outgoings, goalkeeper James Trafford is close to joining Leeds so will need to be replaced.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Hilden may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Borussia Dortmund II have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. Anderson can still play proactively from deep, but he will have other technical players around him to lighten the load in possession, and zones to hit rather than always playing to feet.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. Chelsea urged to sign Man United flop by ex-midfielder: ‘He can be outstanding’.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Given the balance of the numbers, Borussia Dortmund II look capable of springing a surprise on the road — a 1-2 away victory is a distinct possibility. With positions in the Regionalliga - West table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. In terms of outgoings, Perri seems closest to an exit, but that will likely have to wait until Trafford's mandated holiday after the World Cup is over or a No 2 arrives.