Dortmund (Germany), Mar 9 (IANS): Valon Berisha's brace helped FC Red Bull Salzburg beat German powerhouse Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League here.

Dortmund suffered a surprising first leg loss as the Austrian outfit secured a 2-1 away victory on Thursday evening to increase their chances of booking a place in the quarter-finals, reports Xinhua news agency.

Dortmund assumed control from the kick-off yet Peter Stoeger's men lacked any ideas on how to overcome Salzburg's well organised defence.

A set piece situation handed Dortmund their first chance but Andre Schuerrle's volley missed the target six minutes into the game.

As the match progressed, Salzburg created opportunities as well, as Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Buerki had to deny Hee-Chan Hwang from close range in the 40th minute.

The Austrians remained on the front foot and created another chance, as Marcel Schmelzer had to scratch away Munas Dabbur's effort off the goal line before the break.

Dortmund had the worst possible start in the second half as Oemer Toprak fouled Hwang inside the box, allowing Valon Berisha to break the deadlock with a penalty.

Things went from bad to worse for the hosts as Berisha wrapped up his brace after Stefan Lainer's build-up seven minutes later.

The hosts regrouped and responded in the 56th minute when Andre Schuerrle tapped home a cross from Christian Pulisic to cut the lead in half.

Dortmund pressed for the equaliser but Salzburg stood firm and defended their narrow lead to the end to take a 2-1 advantage into the second leg on home soil in Austria next week.