This was a victory for clinical finishing. Despite their inferior shot count of 12-15, BVB won clearly. Four of their five attempts on Hertha’s goal found the net. The quality of their chances was better (xGoals 2.9-1.3) and when things got dangerous at the back, Gregor Kobel stepped up again (seven saves). The match facts.

Like 11 years ago: For the second time in their history, Borussia Dortmund have won their first eight competitive games of a calendar year. It had previously only happened in 2011/12, when BVB went on to lift the double.

Like 53 years ago: BVB have climbed up to second place in the table. The last time Borussia Dortmund were so high was after Matchday 7 in mid-September. BVB are now one of three teams level on points at the summit (43 points alongside Bayern and Union) – the only time that has happened after 21 rounds of matches was 53 years ago (1969/70 season).

Strong at home: The Black & Yellows have won each of their past five Bundesliga home games and occupy top spot in the home table (eight wins, one draw and one defeat). They have now scored at least one goal in 44 consecutive Bundesliga home games – an ongoing club record.

Favourite foe: Borussia Dortmund have won eight of their last nine Bundesliga meetings with Hertha BSC.

Important goals: Karim Adeyemi has scored in his last four competitive games – always putting his team ahead (1-0 three times, 2-1 once).

Direct conversion: Marco Reus scored a direct free-kick for the seventh time in the Bundesliga overall and the first time in almost two years (in Leverkusen in May 2021).

Level terms: Reus scored his 158th competitive goal for BVB and moved level with Manfred Burgsmüller. He assisted the opening goal, initiated the second and made it 3-1 himself. In addition, he recorded the most shot involvements on the pitch (three shots, two shot assists).

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Top-scorer: Julian Brandt has racked up six scorer points in the last seven Bundesliga matches (four goals, two assists). He was rewarded for his effort against Hertha with a goal. The 28 sprints he completed was the most of any player on the pitch. He has scored more Bundesliga goals against Hertha than against any other team (eight).

Historic landmark: Jude Bellingham came off the bench to record his 50th win on his 81st Bundesliga appearance – the 19-year-old is the youngest player in the history of the league to reach this landmark, having broken the record held by Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich).