Karl-Heinz Riedle

Karl-Heinz Riedle is a German former professional striker known for his exceptional heading accuracy and timing despite not being particularly tall. He played for Borussia Dortmund from 1993, becoming a starter who often partnered Stéphane Chapuisat. Although he never scored in double digits during his spell there, his contribution was vital to the club's success, including winning the national championships in 1994–95 and 1995–96 with 13 combined goals. His career at Dortmund reached its peak in the 1996–97 UEFA Champions League final against Juventus, where he netted twice to secure a 3–1 victory.

Quick Facts

Born: 16 September 1965
Birthplace: Weiler im Allgäu, West Germany
Height: 1.79 m / 5 ft 10 in
Position: Striker
Total caps: 465
Total goals: 150

Lore & Background

Riedle's time at Borussia Dortmund began in 1993 after stints with Werder Bremen and S.S. Lazio in Italy. He joined as a starter, frequently partnering Stéphane Chapuisat up front. The highlight of this era came during the 1996–97 UEFA Champions League campaign. In the final against Juventus, Riedle scored twice, leading Dortmund to a historic 3–1 success. This performance cemented his importance in the conquest of the 1995 and 1996 national championships as well, where he contributed 13 goals combined across those two seasons.

Reader's Guide

Riedle's impact on Borussia Dortmund is best understood through his specific contributions to their trophy haul between 1993 and the late 1990s. He was a key figure in winning the Bundesliga titles of 1994–95 and 1995–96, scoring a combined total of 13 goals during those championship campaigns. His most significant individual achievement came in the 1996–97 UEFA Champions League final against Juventus, where he scored two goals to ensure a 3–1 win. Before joining Dortmund, he had already established himself as a prolific scorer at Werder Bremen and Italy's Lazio, but it was his performance on the biggest European stage that solidified his status within the club's history. He departed the squad after this triumph, having served as a starter for most of his spell.