Yan Couto Shines for Borussia Dortmund

First Bundesliga Goal for Couto

In Saturday’s 1-1 match against Leipzig, Yan Couto scored the only goal for Borussia Dortmund, marking his first-ever Bundesliga goal for the club. This milestone came during his 26th appearance in Germany’s premier league and served as a significant achievement for the young Brazilian defender.

Journey to Dortmund

The 1.68-meter-tall player joined Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2024 from Brazil. Like many newcomers, he faced challenges adjusting to life in a new country and adapting to a different league. During his inaugural season with BVB, Couto participated in 21 Bundesliga matches, where he played the entirety of the game in just two instances. Although he started in eight matches, he wasn’t considered a regular starter at that time.

Increased Playing Time This Season

This season, circumstances have shifted, particularly due to several long-term injuries within the squad. Out of the six league games played so far, Couto has participated in five, completing four in full. He was only absent during the team’s 1-0 victory over VfL Wolfsburg.

Breakthrough Goal

Despite regularly featuring in matches, a goal had eluded Couto until now. He finally made his mark in his 26th Bundesliga match, scoring to level the game against Leipzig late in the first half. His overall performance on this particular matchday did not go unnoticed, as it was notably impressive.

Recognized for Excellence

Alongside the happiness of scoring his first goal for Borussia Dortmund, Couto was also recognized in the Kicker Team of the Week. The editorial team chose him as the standout player on the left defensive flank for this sixth matchday.

Consistent Performances

This recognition marks the second time this season Couto has been selected among the top performers. He previously earned this distinction on matchday 2, contributing an assist during Dortmund’s 3-0 home victory over 1. FC Union Berlin.

Nominations and Comparisons

With his two selections, Yan Couto stands out as the only Dortmund player to achieve this honor multiple times in the current season. He shares second place among all Bundesliga players with Konrad Laimer and Daniel Heuer Fernandes, while Harry Kane leads with four nominations. Other Dortmund players, Karim Adeyemi and Julian Ryerson, have received the Kicker Team of the Week recognition once each this season.