A dominant display in Dijon [0-2]

The Girondins were focused, rigorous and dominant this evening, securing their first win of the new season in Dijon (0-2). From the outset, Bordeaux threw themselves into every tackle and battled tirelessly to win the ball in midfield. They also took every opportunity to exploit Dijon's defensive weaknesses. An abortive Dijon corner led to Samuel Kalu racing up the pitch on the counter, delivering a beautiful cross for Ui-Jo Hwang. The South Korean star timed his shot perfectly, smashing a fantastic curving strike into the Dijon goal (0-1, 11’). And there was plenty more to come. Ui-Jo Hwang (15’) and Samuel Kalu (18’, 40’) both tested Dijon keeper Runarsson, with the hosts' only response a header from Baldé which sailed well over the bar (35’). Still buzzing from this high-energy first half, Bordeaux came back from the break with all guns blazing. Nicolas De Préville stepped up to take the first corner of the second period, with Enock Kwateng seizing on a scuffed clearance to head the ball down. Loris Benito pounced to slam it into the back of the net with an unstoppable volley (0-2, 47’). Bordeaux were now well and truly bossing this game. Led by an inspired Samuel Kalu, a tirelessly inventive Nicolas de Préville and an unbeatable Otavio in the middle, the Girondins looked dangerous every time they went forward (53’). Dijon had their chances, but looked disorganised. Only Jules Keita every came close to troubling the imperious Bordeaux defence (67’). That defensive line held firm until the end, as Bordeaux picked up three richly-deserved points. A victory which should give the Girondins a healthy confidence boost ahead of next week's tricky away trip to Lyon.