More importantly, the pitch was wet and slippery, and players were constantly losing their footing.
Wang Shuo didn't dare to run at full speed, afraid he might accidentally get injured.
Once he started holding back, his performance naturally suffered.
The ball, passed around on the slick pitch, was covered in grass clippings and water, leading to frequent errors in passing and receiving.
Everyone was prepared for these conditions.
Nuremberg, playing at home, took the First Move, launching a wave of aggressive attacks from the start. They created some dangerous situations in front of Dortmund's goal but failed to score.
But Dortmund had an answer.
Set pieces!
Corners and direct free kicks were both threatening offensive tools for Dortmund.
Especially Wang Shuo.
He could take them from either the left or right side outside the penalty area.
