Errors cost Dortmund dearly in Augsburg

 Borussia Dortmund's title charge has taken another heavy hit. Augsburg beat Dortmund 2-1, with striker Ji Dong-won capitalizing mercilessly on a pair of defensive errors. Bayern could pull level on Saturday.

Augsburg 2-1 Borussia Dortmund
(Ji 24', 68 — Alcacer 81')

Dortmund had never lost in Augsburg in their Bundesliga history going into Friday's game, and were boosted by the return of captain Marco Reus to the starting lineup. 

Yet fairly early on, it was clear to see that Lucien Favre's side was struggling for rhythm, frequently conceding possession to a five-man Augsburg midfield that was pressing hard and high when appropriate. 

For both goals, defensive errors gifted the hosts their chance. Axel Zadagou was at fault with the first, allowing Andre Hahn to pinch the ball and locate Ji Dong-won in the box. After a tussle with Manuel Akanji in the area, Ji was finally able to rifle the ball home at the second attempt. 

If the opener was an ugly finish, Ji's second was a work of art. This time the beneficiary of a sloppy Achraf Hakimi pass, Ji found himself with just Zagadou and Bürki to beat. He paused, seeking an opening, then deftly chipped the ball over Zagadou's shoulder and beyond the reach of Bürki into the far corner.