Beier's 80th-minute goal lifts Dortmund atop Bundesliga

Borussia Dortmund defeated Eintracht Frankfurt 1-0 on Saturday at Signal Iduna Park to move provisionally to the top of the Bundesliga with 17 points from seven matches, three points ahead of defending champion Bayern Munich ahead of their scheduled clash next week.

Substitute Maximilian Beier scored the decisive goal in the 80th minute after receiving an assist from fellow substitute Jobe Bellingham near the penalty area. Beier's curled effort found the top-right corner of the net, breaking a stalemate that had persisted through the first half and most of the second.

Dortmund dominated possession with 58.4% of the ball and registered 18 shots, though Frankfurt's defense held firm for much of the match. Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy had two clear chances in the opening 20 minutes—a save by Frankfurt goalkeeper Noah Atubolu at 15 minutes and a failed lob attempt moments later. Guirassy struck the crossbar again in the 53rd minute with a header from close range. Dortmund also had a deflected effort by Daniel Svensson strike the crossbar in the 31st minute.

Frankfurt created opportunities despite being the visiting side. Younes Ebnoutalib went through on goal following a Felix Nmecha error but was denied by Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. The visitors registered 48 defensive actions and limited Dortmund to clear-cut chances throughout. Frankfurt's Jonathan Burkardt and Fares Chaibi also tested Dortmund's defense in the second half.

Dortmund manager Niko Kovac brought on Bellingham, Beier, and Ethan Nwaneri in the 68th minute to increase attacking pressure. The substitutions proved decisive, as Bellingham and Beier combined within 12 minutes to secure three points. Kovac described Frankfurt as "a really good" opponent and noted Dortmund "had to invest a lot" to win. Frankfurt coach Adi Hütter acknowledged Dortmund's deserved victory, particularly after the second-half performance.

The result ended Dortmund's recent winless streak following draws with Werder Bremen and Union Berlin. Bayern Munich can reclaim the lead with a win against Freiburg on Sunday.