Augsburg came from behind to beat Borussia Dortmund 2-1 with Alexis Claude-Maurice scoring twice on his first start as BVB's away struggles continued. Dortmund, who were looking to bounce back from their 5-2 midweek defeat by Real Madrid in the Champions League, made an ideal start when Donyell Malen finished coolly inside the penalty area. The Netherlands international ghosted in behind the Augsburg defence following a neat give-and-go with Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy, who has now contributed to 10 goals in nine games in all competitions this season.

Dortmund dominated the opening stages but - as has been a theme this season - Nuri Sahin's side started to cause their own problems playing out from defence. Augsburg took advantage midway through the first half when Alexis Claude-Maurice collected a loose ball and beat Gregor Kobel with a low strike from 25 yards. The visitors went close to reclaiming the lead before half-time but Augsburg goalkeeper Nediljko Labrovic was equal to Marcel Sabitzer's long-range drive.

Dortmund's defensive fragility was exposed again shortly after half-time when Emre Can's poor clearance fell to Claude-Maurice, who found the far bottom corner with a curling effort. Marius Wolf fired over from a tight angle when presented with a chance to put the game beyond his former side, and he was almost made to pay when Dortmund's Jamie Gittens cut inside from the left wing and lashed a shot wide.

Dortmund cranked up the pressure in the final stages, but their afternoon was summed up when 18-year-old debutant Almugera Kabar was shown a second yellow card deep into injury time. Sahin's Dortmund side are still yet to win away from home in the Bundesliga this season and have taken just 13 points from their opening eight league games. Defeat sees Dortmund drop to eighth in the table and seven points behind league leaders RB Leipzig, while Augsburg climbed to 11th after beating BVB for the first time in four years.

Augsburg's Claude-Maurice Shines in First Start

In a performance that will long be remembered by Augsburg fans, Claude-Maurice was the undoubted star of the show. Making his first start for the club, the Frenchman displayed clinical finishing and remarkable composure, scoring with both of his shots on target. His two goals, each showcasing different aspects of his skill set, were instrumental in turning the tide of the match. Claude-Maurice's ability to influence the game, despite limited possession, underlines his efficiency and impact, making him a worthy Player of the Match.

Dortmund's Away Struggles Continue

Dortmund have lost their last four Bundesliga games following on from a Champions League fixture in midweek. In fact, they have only won two of their last 14 Bundesliga away matches on the weekend after a Champions League clash. This latest loss adds further pressure on coach Nuri Sahin, who is in his first season in charge, after he was heavily criticized for his team wasting their 2-0 lead over Madrid and conceding five goals in the second half.

Dortmund's Hopes of Title Challenge Diminishing

Despite their early season promise, Dortmund's hopes of a Bundesliga title challenge are starting to look increasingly remote. They have struggled for consistency, particularly away from home, and their recent defeat to Augsburg is a further indication of the work that needs to be done if they are to challenge Bayern Munich for the championship. With a tough run of fixtures coming up, Sahin will be hoping to turn things around quickly if Dortmund are to remain in contention for the title.

BVB's European Hangover

Dortmund have not won any of their four away games in the Bundesliga this season and remain in seventh place on 13 points after two defeats and a win in their last three league games. The latest loss also piles the pressure on coach Nuri Sahin, in his first season in charge, after he was heavily criticized for his team wasting their 2-0 lead over Madrid and conceding five goals in the second half.

Dortmund Need to Find Their Away Form

The loss to Augsburg further highlights Dortmund's struggles away from home. It is an issue that they have faced in recent seasons, and it is something that they need to address if they are to be considered genuine title contenders. With a crucial match against their rivals Bayern Munich coming up on November 1st, Dortmund will need to find their winning form if they are to get back on track in the Bundesliga.