Borussia Dortmund Season Opener: A Test of Discipline and Home Strength
Borussia Dortmund opens its 2026-27 campaign on Saturday, 15 August, with a double-header against AS Roma at SIGNAL IDUNA PARK and Stadion Rote Erde. The matches mark the return of competitive football to Dortmund after a three-month break and serve as a crucial test before the Super Cup clash with Bayern Munich.
What is the schedule for BVB's season opener?
The women's team kicks off the day at 1 p.m. against Roma's reigning Italian champions at Rote Erde Stadium. Tickets remain available online and at the box office from 11 a.m. The men's friendly follows at SIGNAL IDUNA PARK, with both squads presented to supporters at 4 p.m.
Why is this match important for both teams?
For the men's side, the Roma fixture is a final rehearsal before the Franz Beckenbauer Super Cup against Bayern Munich on 22 August. Coach Niko Kovac will assess his squad's readiness, particularly after last Sunday's 3-2 friendly win over Arsenal. Roma finished third in Serie A last season and return to the Champions League after eight years, making them a serious opponent.
The women's team, featuring new signings Alexandra Popp and Manuela Zinsberger, prepares for their league opener against Arminia Bielefeld on 20 August. Both matches will showcase new arrivals, including Konstantinos Karetsas, Joane Gadou, and Justin Lerma for the men, and Popp and Zinsberger for the women.
Who returns to Dortmund on Saturday?
Donyell Malen, who played for BVB from 2021 to 2025 with 132 appearances and 39 goals, returns wearing Roma's colors. He becomes only the fifth player to represent both clubs, joining Jürgen Schütz, Thomas Häßler, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, and Mats Hummels.
What else can fans expect on match day?
The event extends beyond the pitch. From morning hands-on activities to an autograph session with the women's team, a performance by Blumengarten, and a halftime appearance by Mats Hummels, the day offers family-friendly entertainment. The club encourages early arrival to enjoy the full program.
BVB has not played a professional match at SIGNAL IDUNA PARK since 8 May. Saturday ends that wait, beginning a run of three home games through August, including the Bundesliga opener against Hamburger SV on 29 August.
Frequently asked questions about the BVB season opener
When do the BVB women play AS Roma?
The women's friendly starts at 1 p.m. at Rote Erde Stadium, with box office sales opening at 11 a.m.
Which new signings will debut for Borussia Dortmund?
Konstantinos Karetsas, Joane Gadou, and Justin Lerma debut for the men, while Alexandra Popp and Manuela Zinsberger lead the women's new arrivals.
Why does the Roma match matter for the Super Cup?
It provides Kovac's team a final competitive test against a top European side before facing Bayern Munich on 22 August.
Who is injured for BVB?
Emre Can, Nico Schlotterbeck, and Mussa Kaba are currently sidelined but will attend the squad presentation.