4 days ago
Union Berlin head coach Mauro **** rinelli acknowledged that his side's continued defensive problems extend well beyond one system or one centre-back partnership after Friday evening's 1-3 home defeat against Schalke 04. The result leaves Union with one point from their opening three Bundesliga fixtures and, considerably more concerningly, ten goals conceded.
Lustrinelli's side opened the campaign with a chaotic 3-3 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt before suffering a comprehensive 4-0 away defeat at Bayer Leverkusen last weekend. Schalke then became the third consecutive opponent to exploit a defensive unit still attempting to adjust to significant tactical and personnel changes.
"It's a lot of small things," **** rinelli told Sky Germany when asked about the ten goals conceded. "We're too undisciplined. We're not keeping up with the opponent. And the opponent profits. They exploit it. And we need too many chances to score goals. The two things are decisive over the course of 90 minutes."
The warning signs predate the Bundesliga campaign.
GGFN highlighted Union's defensive instability throughout preseason, with **** rinelli experimenting with multiple formations while attempting to move the club away from the three-centre-back structures that had defined the era of Urs Fischer and his successors.
#goals #bundesliga #centre
Lustrinelli's side opened the campaign with a chaotic 3-3 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt before suffering a comprehensive 4-0 away defeat at Bayer Leverkusen last weekend. Schalke then became the third consecutive opponent to exploit a defensive unit still attempting to adjust to significant tactical and personnel changes.
"It's a lot of small things," **** rinelli told Sky Germany when asked about the ten goals conceded. "We're too undisciplined. We're not keeping up with the opponent. And the opponent profits. They exploit it. And we need too many chances to score goals. The two things are decisive over the course of 90 minutes."
The warning signs predate the Bundesliga campaign.
GGFN highlighted Union's defensive instability throughout preseason, with **** rinelli experimenting with multiple formations while attempting to move the club away from the three-centre-back structures that had defined the era of Urs Fischer and his successors.
#goals #bundesliga #centre
5 days ago
Rennes and Sevilla maintained their promising starts in Ligue 1 and La Liga, Fiorentina got its first win in Serie A, and Schalke beat Union Berlin 3-1 in a Bundesliga match where the referee was replaced on Friday.
Both teams had just one point after their first two Bundesliga matches but newly promoted Schalke went home happiest thanks in part to a fine goalkeeping display from player of the match Loris Karius.
Robin Gosens opened the scoring for Schalke with an angled volley and Aouchiche doubled their lead moments after the break with a superbly taken strike.
Karius held Berlin at bay for much of the second period and though he could not stop Tim Skarke from scoring in the sixth minute of added time, Maximilian Wober restored Schalke's two-goal lead with almost the last kick of the game.
The match was notable for the substitution of referee Timo Gerach early in the second half. Gerach complained of a sore calf and was replaced by fourth official Jarno Wienefeld, an experienced Bundesliga 2 referee who took charge of his first top tier game.
#schalke #referee #berlin
Both teams had just one point after their first two Bundesliga matches but newly promoted Schalke went home happiest thanks in part to a fine goalkeeping display from player of the match Loris Karius.
Robin Gosens opened the scoring for Schalke with an angled volley and Aouchiche doubled their lead moments after the break with a superbly taken strike.
Karius held Berlin at bay for much of the second period and though he could not stop Tim Skarke from scoring in the sixth minute of added time, Maximilian Wober restored Schalke's two-goal lead with almost the last kick of the game.
The match was notable for the substitution of referee Timo Gerach early in the second half. Gerach complained of a sore calf and was replaced by fourth official Jarno Wienefeld, an experienced Bundesliga 2 referee who took charge of his first top tier game.
#schalke #referee #berlin
5 days ago
With four points from three games, FC Schalke have made more than just a respectable start to this Bundesliga season.
A large part of that is down to goalkeeper Loris Karius, who delivered a superb performance both in the sensational 0-0 draw against Bayern Munich and in the 3-1 away win over Union Berlin. Schalke fans in particular are therefore calling for him to be nominated for the German national team on social media.
Karius was asked about that in a Sky interview after the Union match. The TV reporter wanted to know whether there had already been any contact with Germany coach Jürgen Klopp and how realistic he considered a call-up to the national team.
"No, there has been no contact," Karius replied. "I see it as neither realistic nor unrealistic. I'm not thinking about it."
Even so, the 33-year-old, who has repeatedly faced heavy criticism over the course of his career, admitted: "If people ***** ociate me with that, it's a huge compliment to my performance."
#union #loris
A large part of that is down to goalkeeper Loris Karius, who delivered a superb performance both in the sensational 0-0 draw against Bayern Munich and in the 3-1 away win over Union Berlin. Schalke fans in particular are therefore calling for him to be nominated for the German national team on social media.
Karius was asked about that in a Sky interview after the Union match. The TV reporter wanted to know whether there had already been any contact with Germany coach Jürgen Klopp and how realistic he considered a call-up to the national team.
"No, there has been no contact," Karius replied. "I see it as neither realistic nor unrealistic. I'm not thinking about it."
Even so, the 33-year-old, who has repeatedly faced heavy criticism over the course of his career, admitted: "If people ***** ociate me with that, it's a huge compliment to my performance."
#union #loris
5 days ago
On a cloudy, seventeen-degree evening in the federal capital, 1. FC Union Berlin (0-1-1, 15th) played host to FC Schalke 04 (0-1-1, 14th) in the third matchweek of their 2026/27 Bundesliga campaigns at Stadion An der Alten Försterei.
Union Berlin, in their eighth Bundesliga season, managed to draw Eintracht Frankfurt 3-3 on the opening matchweek, but failed to land a single shot on target in an 0-4 defeat to Bayer 04 Leverkusen last weekend. As for Schalke, who return to the Bundesliga for the first time since 2022/23, they lost their opener 0-3 to FC Augsburg but managed to follow it with a scoreless draw against the reigning German champions, FC Bayern München.
This is the seventh meeting between the two sides in their histories, with the current head-to-head record an even 1-4-1. Schalke's lone win came in 2019/20, a 2-1 result at Veltins-Arena - Union's only victory was a dominant 6-1 result in the 2022/23 season, with that match also having been played in Gelsenkirchen. With the other sixteen teams yet to play their third matches, the winning side from this match would move up to seventh place in the table, and will likely be in the middle of the table by the time that all matches are complete on Sunday.
The hosts, in red, would kick off the match and go left to right in the opening term, with Schalke, in blue, going right to left when on the attack. It would take ten minutes for the visitors to get the first chance, as a through ball from Robin Gosens on the left side of the Union half would reach Kenan Karaman at the edge of the box. The Turkish striker and team captain saw enough ******* e to direct a shot towards the top-left corner, and did not miss by much, as his right-footed attempt went over the hands of a jumping Frederik Rønnow and slightly over the bar.
Schalke would win a corner just five minutes later, whipped in near-post by Adil Aouchiche; the cross would be met by a powerful header from Dejan Ljubičić, but the Austrian attacking midfielder would send the ball well above the top-right corner and out of play. Aouchiche would then get another chance of his own in the nineteenth minute, but his right-footed curler towards the top-left corner was fantastically denied by a leaping Rønnow.
#played
Union Berlin, in their eighth Bundesliga season, managed to draw Eintracht Frankfurt 3-3 on the opening matchweek, but failed to land a single shot on target in an 0-4 defeat to Bayer 04 Leverkusen last weekend. As for Schalke, who return to the Bundesliga for the first time since 2022/23, they lost their opener 0-3 to FC Augsburg but managed to follow it with a scoreless draw against the reigning German champions, FC Bayern München.
This is the seventh meeting between the two sides in their histories, with the current head-to-head record an even 1-4-1. Schalke's lone win came in 2019/20, a 2-1 result at Veltins-Arena - Union's only victory was a dominant 6-1 result in the 2022/23 season, with that match also having been played in Gelsenkirchen. With the other sixteen teams yet to play their third matches, the winning side from this match would move up to seventh place in the table, and will likely be in the middle of the table by the time that all matches are complete on Sunday.
The hosts, in red, would kick off the match and go left to right in the opening term, with Schalke, in blue, going right to left when on the attack. It would take ten minutes for the visitors to get the first chance, as a through ball from Robin Gosens on the left side of the Union half would reach Kenan Karaman at the edge of the box. The Turkish striker and team captain saw enough ******* e to direct a shot towards the top-left corner, and did not miss by much, as his right-footed attempt went over the hands of a jumping Frederik Rønnow and slightly over the bar.
Schalke would win a corner just five minutes later, whipped in near-post by Adil Aouchiche; the cross would be met by a powerful header from Dejan Ljubičić, but the Austrian attacking midfielder would send the ball well above the top-right corner and out of play. Aouchiche would then get another chance of his own in the nineteenth minute, but his right-footed curler towards the top-left corner was fantastically denied by a leaping Rønnow.
#played
8 days ago
Vincent Kompany and Bayern Munich have received a major injury boost ahead of their opening UEFA Champions League game against Bodø/Glimt on Thursday. Serge Gnabry, who hasn't played since last season's Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid in April, returned to full team training on Monday, according to Bild.
Eager to make up for lost time following his adductor tear, it's quite possible that Gnabry could return to the squad as early as Thursday, which could have consequences for summer signing Ismael Saibari. The duo will compete for the No.10 spot behind Harry Kane, a position that has also been occupied by fellow summer arrival Nathaniel Brown, in the absence of Jamal Musiala.
Kompany, therefore, has plenty of options to keep things interesting. Notably, following Bayern's 0-0 draw against Bundesliga returnees Schalke 04, Didi Hamann criticised Saibari's performance. "Saibari is a wonderful footballer," he told Sky90. "But he's too slow. He's not fast at all, he's like a poor Kane.
"They say Saibari can play four positions. I think the only position Saibari can play is behind Kane, because he's too slow on the wing. Gnabry is a class above him there."
GGFN | Daniel Pinder
#kompany #league #following
Eager to make up for lost time following his adductor tear, it's quite possible that Gnabry could return to the squad as early as Thursday, which could have consequences for summer signing Ismael Saibari. The duo will compete for the No.10 spot behind Harry Kane, a position that has also been occupied by fellow summer arrival Nathaniel Brown, in the absence of Jamal Musiala.
Kompany, therefore, has plenty of options to keep things interesting. Notably, following Bayern's 0-0 draw against Bundesliga returnees Schalke 04, Didi Hamann criticised Saibari's performance. "Saibari is a wonderful footballer," he told Sky90. "But he's too slow. He's not fast at all, he's like a poor Kane.
"They say Saibari can play four positions. I think the only position Saibari can play is behind Kane, because he's too slow on the wing. Gnabry is a class above him there."
GGFN | Daniel Pinder
#kompany #league #following
11 days ago
Newly-promoted Schalke 04 ended FC Bayern's winning start to the season. The Royal Blues held the Rekordmeister to a goalless draw in their first Bundesliga game back at Veltins Arena.
"For me, FC Bayern is the best team in the world," Miron Muslić admitted in his post-match interview. "There's no bigger compliment to my team than keeping a clean sheet against Bayern. We had a good match plan and executed it well. We had everything today, so we deserved the point."
Muslić and Schalke will now turn their attention to registering their first league win of the season when they commence matchday 3 against Union Berlin, who also have one point from the first couple of weeks.
#schalke #team #newly
"For me, FC Bayern is the best team in the world," Miron Muslić admitted in his post-match interview. "There's no bigger compliment to my team than keeping a clean sheet against Bayern. We had a good match plan and executed it well. We had everything today, so we deserved the point."
Muslić and Schalke will now turn their attention to registering their first league win of the season when they commence matchday 3 against Union Berlin, who also have one point from the first couple of weeks.
#schalke #team #newly
11 days ago
When the Bundesliga schedule was first confirmed and it became clear Schalke 04 would host Bayern Munich on jut the second Bundesliga matchday, the expectation was that Die Königsblauen would be swept aside rather convincingly. After all, the team's last meeting, three years ago, ended 6-0 to Bayern. That was under Thomas Tuchel's inconsistent Bayern. What could Kompany & Co do?
Stutter to a 0-0 draw, that is what. A dour Bayern team struggled to get out of second gear and really punish a defensively solid Schalke, who celebrate their first point since their return to the Bundesliga. Here are some observations on the match:
It is easy to forget after the match, but the first 15 minutes completely belonged to Bayern. The Bavarians' counterpress utterly suffocated the hosts, who simply could not exit their own half in those minutes. The team pinged the ball around, kept it well and utterly annihilated any counter attacks.
But, in what would become an unfortunate running theme throughout the match, the passing was far too slow and the players seemed unsure of their positions. One of Bayern's most important strengths is their ability to move the ball quickly from side to side. Players know their positions, know how to move the ball on and ping it back and forth. This forces the opposition defense to move side to side, which opens up **** e in the middle and opportunities to score.
This was missing today. It was clear that the chemistry among forwards Nathaniel Brown, Ismael Saibari and Lennart Karl was missing, but regulars such as Konrad Laimer, Alphonso Davies and Dayot Upamecano also struggled to really get into the flow of things. It was possible to overcome these issues (Nathaniel Brown, after all, would still have given Bayern the lead if it had not been for a phenomenal save by Loris Karius in the Schalke goal) and perhaps the players would have grown into the match more.
#players #first
Stutter to a 0-0 draw, that is what. A dour Bayern team struggled to get out of second gear and really punish a defensively solid Schalke, who celebrate their first point since their return to the Bundesliga. Here are some observations on the match:
It is easy to forget after the match, but the first 15 minutes completely belonged to Bayern. The Bavarians' counterpress utterly suffocated the hosts, who simply could not exit their own half in those minutes. The team pinged the ball around, kept it well and utterly annihilated any counter attacks.
But, in what would become an unfortunate running theme throughout the match, the passing was far too slow and the players seemed unsure of their positions. One of Bayern's most important strengths is their ability to move the ball quickly from side to side. Players know their positions, know how to move the ball on and ping it back and forth. This forces the opposition defense to move side to side, which opens up **** e in the middle and opportunities to score.
This was missing today. It was clear that the chemistry among forwards Nathaniel Brown, Ismael Saibari and Lennart Karl was missing, but regulars such as Konrad Laimer, Alphonso Davies and Dayot Upamecano also struggled to really get into the flow of things. It was possible to overcome these issues (Nathaniel Brown, after all, would still have given Bayern the lead if it had not been for a phenomenal save by Loris Karius in the Schalke goal) and perhaps the players would have grown into the match more.
#players #first
11 days ago
Bayern Munich did not see this coming. Schalke came out with intent, and their low block was executed to perfection. A well-deserved point for the Royal Blues.
Fantastic defending, coupled with quick, incisive passing, and attacking initiative on counters meant Schalke was a thorn up Bayern's backside the entire game. Bayern were a snoozefest in the first half, and only the substitutions of Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Jamal Musiala into the game injected energy and purpose into the attack.
Tough day for the awards, but here are the standout performers from what was an absolute tussle of a game.
Karius just had the GAME OF HIS LIFE.
5 SUREFIRE goals saved. 3 high claims and 9 recoveries. There were other Schalke players having a better game up until the 60' mark, when Karius decided to single-handedly save his team on multiple occasions, denying Luis Díaz, Harry Kane, and Lennart Karl from point-blank range. Schalke have their star keeper to thank for keeping a point at home.
#royal
Fantastic defending, coupled with quick, incisive passing, and attacking initiative on counters meant Schalke was a thorn up Bayern's backside the entire game. Bayern were a snoozefest in the first half, and only the substitutions of Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Jamal Musiala into the game injected energy and purpose into the attack.
Tough day for the awards, but here are the standout performers from what was an absolute tussle of a game.
Karius just had the GAME OF HIS LIFE.
5 SUREFIRE goals saved. 3 high claims and 9 recoveries. There were other Schalke players having a better game up until the 60' mark, when Karius decided to single-handedly save his team on multiple occasions, denying Luis Díaz, Harry Kane, and Lennart Karl from point-blank range. Schalke have their star keeper to thank for keeping a point at home.
#royal
11 days ago
16' — Karius safely collects the corner from Joshua Kimmich.
13' — Lorius Karius denies Nathaniel Brown inside the box. Bayern corner.
8' — Alphonso Davies receives the ball on the left wing, and his intended cross nearly ended up in the net.
7' — Jonathan Tah collides with a Schalke player. Play is waved on.
5' — Luis Díaz beats three players inside the Schalke box but the hosts clear the ball.
#karius #corner #nathaniel #brown
13' — Lorius Karius denies Nathaniel Brown inside the box. Bayern corner.
8' — Alphonso Davies receives the ball on the left wing, and his intended cross nearly ended up in the net.
7' — Jonathan Tah collides with a Schalke player. Play is waved on.
5' — Luis Díaz beats three players inside the Schalke box but the hosts clear the ball.
#karius #corner #nathaniel #brown
12 days ago
FC Augsburg talisman Anton Kade is a doubt to feature for Manuel Baum's team who travel to face Eintracht Frankfurt this weekend.
Kade departed the training pitches early during the week, and it remains unclear whether he'll be fit in time for Sunday's clash.
"He had to cut training short in Wednesday's session - we don't know yet if he's fit for the weekend," explained coach Baum.
The 47-year-old hinted that a decision on the versatile attacker for their meeting with Frankfurt will come "in the next few hours."
Kade made a strong start to the season in their 3-0 win over Schalke, ****** isting Michael Gregoritsch's goal before scoring himself.
#kade #augsburg #anton
Kade departed the training pitches early during the week, and it remains unclear whether he'll be fit in time for Sunday's clash.
"He had to cut training short in Wednesday's session - we don't know yet if he's fit for the weekend," explained coach Baum.
The 47-year-old hinted that a decision on the versatile attacker for their meeting with Frankfurt will come "in the next few hours."
Kade made a strong start to the season in their 3-0 win over Schalke, ****** isting Michael Gregoritsch's goal before scoring himself.
#kade #augsburg #anton
12 days ago
At the press conference ahead of the home match against Augsburg, Adi Hütter discusses team news, the opponents and new signing Lilian Brassier, among other things.
Eintracht entertain FC Augsburg at Deutsche Bank Park on Sunday evening in their first home game of the 2026/27 Bundesliga season. At the pre-match press conference, head coach Adi Hütter discussed…
… the current situation: "We're working every day in training on implementing what I see and how I want to play football. We showed that in phases against Union Berlin, but I also saw things there that I wasn't pleased with. We want to play proactive football with a lot of passion, which is also the football the fans in the stadium want to see. When that clicks, we'll have success."
… team news: "Nnamdi Collins and Ansgar Knauff are injured, but we're slowly getting to the point where everyone will be fit."
… FC Augsburg: "They made a great start to the season with the win at home to Schalke and will come here with confidence. They're a good side with exciting players, who we'll need to deal with. I expect us to show the fans that we're determined to win. It's possible that not everything will work right away."
#Football #tter #team
Eintracht entertain FC Augsburg at Deutsche Bank Park on Sunday evening in their first home game of the 2026/27 Bundesliga season. At the pre-match press conference, head coach Adi Hütter discussed…
… the current situation: "We're working every day in training on implementing what I see and how I want to play football. We showed that in phases against Union Berlin, but I also saw things there that I wasn't pleased with. We want to play proactive football with a lot of passion, which is also the football the fans in the stadium want to see. When that clicks, we'll have success."
… team news: "Nnamdi Collins and Ansgar Knauff are injured, but we're slowly getting to the point where everyone will be fit."
… FC Augsburg: "They made a great start to the season with the win at home to Schalke and will come here with confidence. They're a good side with exciting players, who we'll need to deal with. I expect us to show the fans that we're determined to win. It's possible that not everything will work right away."
#Football #tter #team
12 days ago
No stadium and no canteen would be complete without it: the good old currywurst. In Germany, this cult dish is so important that it even has its own day on September 4.
So naturally, we find ourselves asking: which former or current Bundesliga pro would actually run the best snack stand and whip up an absolutely first-class currywurst for us there?
Mr. Kebab Toss is, of course, the undisputed number one. If you order a dish here, you'll either get it handed to you or, alternatively, thrown straight into your face from three meters away. Better not walk into this place wearing Schalke gear.
His snack stand would probably have 47 special offers at the same time. No one understands the menu, but in the end everything tastes delicious. The server talks nonstop to the guests or, if necessary, to the deep fryer.
As the owner of numerous kebab shops, Poldi is already deeply involved in the business. So what's stopping him from expanding it a little further? If it tastes good, it tastes good.
#september
So naturally, we find ourselves asking: which former or current Bundesliga pro would actually run the best snack stand and whip up an absolutely first-class currywurst for us there?
Mr. Kebab Toss is, of course, the undisputed number one. If you order a dish here, you'll either get it handed to you or, alternatively, thrown straight into your face from three meters away. Better not walk into this place wearing Schalke gear.
His snack stand would probably have 47 special offers at the same time. No one understands the menu, but in the end everything tastes delicious. The server talks nonstop to the guests or, if necessary, to the deep fryer.
As the owner of numerous kebab shops, Poldi is already deeply involved in the business. So what's stopping him from expanding it a little further? If it tastes good, it tastes good.
#september
21 days ago
Not to everyone's delight, Elversberg are active in the transfer market ahead of their first-ever top-flight season. The smallest town to be represented in Bundesliga is backed by investor Frank Holzer, who is the head of pharmaceutical company Ursapharm, which didn't go well with the traditional ethos of German football.
After missing out on a promotion the previous season with a narrow defeat to Heidenheim in the playoff, Elversberg faced a similar scare in the final month of the 2. Bundesliga campaign. A defeat to eventually relegated Fortuna Düsseldorf made them wait until the final matchday of the season to write history.
The club from a town of 13,000 inhabitants has only made the jump to the second division in 2023. Despite the promising 2024/25 campaign, few predicted them to be around the top once again since their long-serving coach Horst Steffen was poached by Werder Bremen, while top scorers Fisnik Asllani and Muhammed Damar returned to their parent club Hoffenheim.
And, in the middle of the season, 12-goal hero Younes Ebnoutalib joined Eintracht Frankfurt. To their credit, Vincent Wagner's side maintained their momentum after the departure of the Moroccan attacker with David Mokwa proving to be the perfect replacement.
Their form at the Ursapharm-Arena an der Kaiserlinde was a big factor as Hertha and Schalke were the only teams to return home with three points. In the end, Elversberg followed the latter to win automatic promotion to Bundesliga.
#elversberg #PROMOTION #final #campaign
After missing out on a promotion the previous season with a narrow defeat to Heidenheim in the playoff, Elversberg faced a similar scare in the final month of the 2. Bundesliga campaign. A defeat to eventually relegated Fortuna Düsseldorf made them wait until the final matchday of the season to write history.
The club from a town of 13,000 inhabitants has only made the jump to the second division in 2023. Despite the promising 2024/25 campaign, few predicted them to be around the top once again since their long-serving coach Horst Steffen was poached by Werder Bremen, while top scorers Fisnik Asllani and Muhammed Damar returned to their parent club Hoffenheim.
And, in the middle of the season, 12-goal hero Younes Ebnoutalib joined Eintracht Frankfurt. To their credit, Vincent Wagner's side maintained their momentum after the departure of the Moroccan attacker with David Mokwa proving to be the perfect replacement.
Their form at the Ursapharm-Arena an der Kaiserlinde was a big factor as Hertha and Schalke were the only teams to return home with three points. In the end, Elversberg followed the latter to win automatic promotion to Bundesliga.
#elversberg #PROMOTION #final #campaign
23 days ago
The first round of the DFB-Pokal continues with the match between Hallescher FC and FC Schalke 04 - who will come out on top?
With just about one hour to go until kickoff, here are the confirmed lineups for both sides:
Halle (4-4-2): Bendel - Hauptmann, Halili, Landgraf, Kastull - Hartmann, Stierlin, Becker, Damelang - Benyamina, Ratifo
Schalke (4-4-2): Karius - T. Becker, Katic, Kurucay, V. Becker - Ljubicic, El-Faouzi, Schallenberg, Aouchiche - Ebimbe, Sylla
#hallescher #bendel #hauptmann
With just about one hour to go until kickoff, here are the confirmed lineups for both sides:
Halle (4-4-2): Bendel - Hauptmann, Halili, Landgraf, Kastull - Hartmann, Stierlin, Becker, Damelang - Benyamina, Ratifo
Schalke (4-4-2): Karius - T. Becker, Katic, Kurucay, V. Becker - Ljubicic, El-Faouzi, Schallenberg, Aouchiche - Ebimbe, Sylla
#hallescher #bendel #hauptmann
27 days ago
Espanyol and Real Madrid face off this Saturday at the RCDE Stadium in La Liga. Espanyol mark their 90th participation in the competition, whilst Real Madrid go into their 96th.
Espanyol have 3 points to their name this season and occupy 1st position in the table. In their last game, Manolo González's team won 3-0 against Levante (La Liga 2026/27).
Real Madrid have picked up 0 points and currently lie in 10th position. In their last match, José Mourinho's team prevailed 0-3 against Schalke 04 (Pre-season 2026/27).
The last meeting between the two teams ended with Real Madrid winning 2-0.
Raúl Asencio - Muscle Injury
#real #liga #points #position
Espanyol have 3 points to their name this season and occupy 1st position in the table. In their last game, Manolo González's team won 3-0 against Levante (La Liga 2026/27).
Real Madrid have picked up 0 points and currently lie in 10th position. In their last match, José Mourinho's team prevailed 0-3 against Schalke 04 (Pre-season 2026/27).
The last meeting between the two teams ended with Real Madrid winning 2-0.
Raúl Asencio - Muscle Injury
#real #liga #points #position
30 days ago
Real Madrid have in the early stages of an exciting new era, spearheaded by returning head coach Jose Mourinho. The Portuguese was brought back by Jose Mourinho earlier in the summer, and so far, his second spell in charge has gone well, with Sunday's 3-0 victory over Schalke making it four wins and a draw in pre-season.
Thibaut Courtois was one of the Real Madrid players featuring for the first time in pre-season against Schalke, and after the match, he spoke to Real Madrid TV (via MD) to reflect on the victory in Gelsenkirchen, as well as how he is feeling ahead of his ninth season as a Los Blancos player.
"I feel very good. I did a lot of gym on my holidays to be well, I came a couple of days before because I felt that I had to do some individual work to be well, today I tested myself and felt good. Today was the last test before starting the season and it was important to play a good game. I think we did it, we were safe at the back, created many chances, good play. Physically I see everyone very well."
Real Madrid are determined to bounce back after two consecutive seasons without a major trophy, and Courtois believes that this group is the one to turn things around at the Bernabeu during the 2026-27 campaign.
"There is a lot of enthusiasm. After the World Cup we have arrived little by little, but the team is looking forward to it, everyone wants a great season, I see a lot of dedication and a lot of desire to start. (Mourinho asks for) a lot of concentration at every moment of the game, in corners, fouls, every second of the game, playing well and seriously."
#jose
Thibaut Courtois was one of the Real Madrid players featuring for the first time in pre-season against Schalke, and after the match, he spoke to Real Madrid TV (via MD) to reflect on the victory in Gelsenkirchen, as well as how he is feeling ahead of his ninth season as a Los Blancos player.
"I feel very good. I did a lot of gym on my holidays to be well, I came a couple of days before because I felt that I had to do some individual work to be well, today I tested myself and felt good. Today was the last test before starting the season and it was important to play a good game. I think we did it, we were safe at the back, created many chances, good play. Physically I see everyone very well."
Real Madrid are determined to bounce back after two consecutive seasons without a major trophy, and Courtois believes that this group is the one to turn things around at the Bernabeu during the 2026-27 campaign.
"There is a lot of enthusiasm. After the World Cup we have arrived little by little, but the team is looking forward to it, everyone wants a great season, I see a lot of dedication and a lot of desire to start. (Mourinho asks for) a lot of concentration at every moment of the game, in corners, fouls, every second of the game, playing well and seriously."
#jose
1 month ago
Real Madrid ended their pre-season schedule in fine style on Sunday with a resounding 3-0 victory over Schalke at the VELTINS-Arena. Kylian Mbappe, Dean Huijsen and summer signing Carlos Espi all scored for Los Blancos, who won four of their five fixtures in the lead-up to the 2026-27 campaign starting next weekend.
As per MD, head coach Jose Mourinho spoke to Real Madrid TV to discuss where he sees his side ahead of the season opener against Espanyol next week. He admitted that he is pleased with everyone's condition, including those who only just returned following an extended break after the 2026 World Cup.
"At the moment, it's difficult to speak individually, because we're growing as a team. Here we only have good, very good and very, very good players. From the combination of the work of these players we have to make a very good team. I think we are taking the right steps to do it.
"I'm very happy with the last ones who arrived, it's not easy to get into a high intensity, have a double session morning and afternoon, an incredible heat, and they arrived with a top mentality. The question of 45 minutes for Kylian, for Konate, 30 for Jude, Cucurella, Diomande, are things that we **** yse scientifically with data we have and with the player's own experience, the knowledge of his body. We arrive in a very acceptable condition for this moment of the season."
Mourinho is also pleased with how his players are becoming a cohesive unit, and he expects things to get better and better as they all get up to match speed.
#mourinho
As per MD, head coach Jose Mourinho spoke to Real Madrid TV to discuss where he sees his side ahead of the season opener against Espanyol next week. He admitted that he is pleased with everyone's condition, including those who only just returned following an extended break after the 2026 World Cup.
"At the moment, it's difficult to speak individually, because we're growing as a team. Here we only have good, very good and very, very good players. From the combination of the work of these players we have to make a very good team. I think we are taking the right steps to do it.
"I'm very happy with the last ones who arrived, it's not easy to get into a high intensity, have a double session morning and afternoon, an incredible heat, and they arrived with a top mentality. The question of 45 minutes for Kylian, for Konate, 30 for Jude, Cucurella, Diomande, are things that we **** yse scientifically with data we have and with the player's own experience, the knowledge of his body. We arrive in a very acceptable condition for this moment of the season."
Mourinho is also pleased with how his players are becoming a cohesive unit, and he expects things to get better and better as they all get up to match speed.
#mourinho
1 month ago
Vinicius Jr. found himself at the centre of attention during Real Madrid's 3-0 victory over Schalke 04, although it was not his performance that generated the biggest reaction.
The Brazilian forward was repeatedly booed by sections of the Schalke support, despite having no previous history with the German club and never having played at the stadium before.
Every time Vinicius touched the ball, whistles followed. The same happened when Jose Mourinho eventually substituted him during the second half, bringing another hostile reaction from the stands.
Rather than allowing the atmosphere to affect him, however, the Real Madrid star appeared to enjoy the exchange with the home supporters.
Vinicius received a hostile reception from the Schalke crowd from the moment he became involved in the game.
#reaction #brazilian #every #jose
The Brazilian forward was repeatedly booed by sections of the Schalke support, despite having no previous history with the German club and never having played at the stadium before.
Every time Vinicius touched the ball, whistles followed. The same happened when Jose Mourinho eventually substituted him during the second half, bringing another hostile reaction from the stands.
Rather than allowing the atmosphere to affect him, however, the Real Madrid star appeared to enjoy the exchange with the home supporters.
Vinicius received a hostile reception from the Schalke crowd from the moment he became involved in the game.
#reaction #brazilian #every #jose
1 month ago
The transfer market is shaking with the imminent agreement between Barça and Manchester City for Rodri Hernández, on a day when the Community Shield and the French Super Cup delivered major surprises in European football.
FC Barcelona and Manchester City have finalized the transfer of Rodrigo Hernández, pending only the official announcement from both clubs. The Madrid-born midfielder will strengthen the Blaugrana engine room in what is shaping up to be one of the summer's biggest moves.
Real Madrid wrapped up their preseason on a positive note after beating Schalke 04 0-3. Kylian Mbappé led Los Blancos' attack in a strong collective display, with goals also coming from defender Dean Huijsen and young striker Carlos Espí.
Mikel Arteta got the better of Enzo Maresca in the first official ****** le match of the season in England. The Gunners swept aside Manchester City with an emphatic 3-0 win to lift the Community Shield and send a warning ahead of the Premier League campaign.
Paris Saint-Germain suffered a monumental upset in the French Super Cup. Luis Enrique's side were beaten by a Lens team that played with ten men from the opening thirty minutes, meaning it was the second domestic ****** le to slip from the Asturian coach's grasp.
#hern #shield #madrid
FC Barcelona and Manchester City have finalized the transfer of Rodrigo Hernández, pending only the official announcement from both clubs. The Madrid-born midfielder will strengthen the Blaugrana engine room in what is shaping up to be one of the summer's biggest moves.
Real Madrid wrapped up their preseason on a positive note after beating Schalke 04 0-3. Kylian Mbappé led Los Blancos' attack in a strong collective display, with goals also coming from defender Dean Huijsen and young striker Carlos Espí.
Mikel Arteta got the better of Enzo Maresca in the first official ****** le match of the season in England. The Gunners swept aside Manchester City with an emphatic 3-0 win to lift the Community Shield and send a warning ahead of the Premier League campaign.
Paris Saint-Germain suffered a monumental upset in the French Super Cup. Luis Enrique's side were beaten by a Lens team that played with ten men from the opening thirty minutes, meaning it was the second domestic ****** le to slip from the Asturian coach's grasp.
#hern #shield #madrid
1 month ago
Marc Cucurella's Real Madrid debut was not entirely straightforward, despite the Spanish international helping his new side secure a comfortable 3-0 victory over Schalke 04.
The left-back was among two Real Madrid players targeted by sections of the home support, with Vinicius Jr. also receiving abuse during the match.
For Cucurella, however, the hostile reaction appeared to come from an incident that Germany fans have clearly not forgotten.
Still, the whistles did little to spoil his evening, as Cucurella came off the bench in the 61st minute to replace Alvaro Carreras and left Germany pleased with his first appearance in the famous white shirt.
The reaction towards Cucurella appears to have its roots in Spain's meeting with Germany at Euro 2024.
#cucurella #germany #marc
The left-back was among two Real Madrid players targeted by sections of the home support, with Vinicius Jr. also receiving abuse during the match.
For Cucurella, however, the hostile reaction appeared to come from an incident that Germany fans have clearly not forgotten.
Still, the whistles did little to spoil his evening, as Cucurella came off the bench in the 61st minute to replace Alvaro Carreras and left Germany pleased with his first appearance in the famous white shirt.
The reaction towards Cucurella appears to have its roots in Spain's meeting with Germany at Euro 2024.
#cucurella #germany #marc
1 month ago
Dean Huijsen enjoyed a special moment in Real Madrid's 3-0 victory over Schalke 04 on Sunday, scoring a goal and speaking about what it means to wear the club's famous number 4 shirt.
The young centre-back, who grew up admiring Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos, admitted that taking on the number previously ***** ociated with his idol is something he had always hoped for.
Huijsen also found the net in the friendly, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made his return after overcoming the issue that forced him to miss Belgium's final World Cup match.
Huijsen scored Real Madrid's second goal after meeting an Arda Guler corner with a header, but afterwards, his attention turned to the significance of the shirt number he now wears.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV, Huijsen explained why the number 4 holds such importance for him, saying,
#speaking
The young centre-back, who grew up admiring Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos, admitted that taking on the number previously ***** ociated with his idol is something he had always hoped for.
Huijsen also found the net in the friendly, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made his return after overcoming the issue that forced him to miss Belgium's final World Cup match.
Huijsen scored Real Madrid's second goal after meeting an Arda Guler corner with a header, but afterwards, his attention turned to the significance of the shirt number he now wears.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV, Huijsen explained why the number 4 holds such importance for him, saying,
#speaking
1 month ago
The full agreement between Barcelona and Manchester City for Rodri Hernández is shaking up the summer transfer market, while Real Madrid wrap up their preseason with a big win and LaLiga gets its first season underway.
The Madrid-based press is focusing on the positive feelings around Real Madrid in the final stretch of their preparations. Marca leads its front page with the headline "A top-level Madrid" after their emphatic 0-3 win over Schalke 04, highlighting that Kylian Mbappé needed only six minutes to find the net.
For its part, AS leads with "Mbappé shines with Mourinho", underlining the French star's leadership and the strong defensive and goalscoring displays from players such as Huijsen and Espí. At the top, both papers agree in highlighting the imminent agreement between Barça and Manchester City for Rodri.
In the Catalan press, the real bombshell of the summer is stealing all the attention. Sport declares on its front page with a resounding "Signed!" to announce the full agreement for Rodri for a fee close to 60 million fixed plus add-ons.
Along very similar lines, Mundo Deportivo headlines "Rodri YES" and adds that João Cancelo will also arrive on a free transfer after ending his ties with Al Hilal. Both outlets round out their front pages with Barça's 2-5 win in Basel, featuring a brace from Bisiwu and major contributions from the youngsters.
#madrid #real #summer
The Madrid-based press is focusing on the positive feelings around Real Madrid in the final stretch of their preparations. Marca leads its front page with the headline "A top-level Madrid" after their emphatic 0-3 win over Schalke 04, highlighting that Kylian Mbappé needed only six minutes to find the net.
For its part, AS leads with "Mbappé shines with Mourinho", underlining the French star's leadership and the strong defensive and goalscoring displays from players such as Huijsen and Espí. At the top, both papers agree in highlighting the imminent agreement between Barça and Manchester City for Rodri.
In the Catalan press, the real bombshell of the summer is stealing all the attention. Sport declares on its front page with a resounding "Signed!" to announce the full agreement for Rodri for a fee close to 60 million fixed plus add-ons.
Along very similar lines, Mundo Deportivo headlines "Rodri YES" and adds that João Cancelo will also arrive on a free transfer after ending his ties with Al Hilal. Both outlets round out their front pages with Barça's 2-5 win in Basel, featuring a brace from Bisiwu and major contributions from the youngsters.
#madrid #real #summer
1 month ago
Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho has revealed exactly how he suffered the black eye which he was spotted sporting on the touchline on Sunday.
Mourinho's Real were back in action a short time ago, locking horns with German outfit Schalke amid ongoing preparations for the new La Liga campaign.
When all was said and done, Los Blancos emerged comfortable victors, by three goals to nil. This kept alive what has been a fine pre-season to date for the capital club under the watch of their new manager.
Speaking to the media post-match this evening, though, it was the subject of his personal appearance which was put to Mourinho himself. As alluded to above, the Portuguese tactician was sporting a 'shiner' whilst on the bench at Veltins-Arena.
And asked how he suffered the blow, Mourinho went on to explain:
#sunday #schalke #liga
Mourinho's Real were back in action a short time ago, locking horns with German outfit Schalke amid ongoing preparations for the new La Liga campaign.
When all was said and done, Los Blancos emerged comfortable victors, by three goals to nil. This kept alive what has been a fine pre-season to date for the capital club under the watch of their new manager.
Speaking to the media post-match this evening, though, it was the subject of his personal appearance which was put to Mourinho himself. As alluded to above, the Portuguese tactician was sporting a 'shiner' whilst on the bench at Veltins-Arena.
And asked how he suffered the blow, Mourinho went on to explain:
#sunday #schalke #liga
1 month ago
View Link
On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse discuss:
Trent Alexander-Arnold + Ibrahima Konate partnership
Arda Güler and Jude Bellingham
Schalke's high line
#wiltse
On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse discuss:
Trent Alexander-Arnold + Ibrahima Konate partnership
Arda Güler and Jude Bellingham
Schalke's high line
#wiltse
1 month ago
Schalke played host to European giants Real Madrid on the occasion of Veltins-Arena's 25th anniversary. Despite the 3-0 defeat to Jose Mourinho's star-studded side, the hosts performed admirably with no summer signing in their starting lineup.
On his first game back from finishing top-scorer at the World Cup, Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the sixth minute after he intercepted Ron Schallenberg's poor backpass for Loris Karius. Dean Huijsen doubled Real Madrid's advantage with a powerful header from Arda Güler's corner-kick.
Former RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande made his debut for his new club minutes after fellow new signing Carlos Espi netted the third for Los Blancos. Edin Džeko, who was looking forward to playing against his former coach, entered as a substitute ten minutes from time as he played his first game since re-joining Schalke.
Huub Stevens, Clemens Toennies and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar were among several former Schalke figures present for the special day at Veltins-Arena.
#minutes #european
On his first game back from finishing top-scorer at the World Cup, Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the sixth minute after he intercepted Ron Schallenberg's poor backpass for Loris Karius. Dean Huijsen doubled Real Madrid's advantage with a powerful header from Arda Güler's corner-kick.
Former RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande made his debut for his new club minutes after fellow new signing Carlos Espi netted the third for Los Blancos. Edin Džeko, who was looking forward to playing against his former coach, entered as a substitute ten minutes from time as he played his first game since re-joining Schalke.
Huub Stevens, Clemens Toennies and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar were among several former Schalke figures present for the special day at Veltins-Arena.
#minutes #european
1 month ago
Philipp Max decided to end his professional career at the age of 32 due to fitness issues. The three-time Germany international was without a club since leaving Gamba Osaka in March. The former Eintracht Frankfurt and Augsburg defender ended his time in ******* an after no appearances in his only six weeks at the club.
The set-piece specialist scored 16 goals in 180 Bundesliga appearances. He spent time with FC Bayern and Schalke youth teams, but it was at Augsburg he first made a name for himself as a Bundesliga regular.
He then played in Eredivisie for three seasons after joining PSV in 2020 for €10 million. Eintracht Frankfurt returned him and Mario Götze to Bundesliga, but his spell at the traditional club was unsuccessful.
Max played his last professional game during the 2024/25 season for Greek side Panathinaikos. The left-back was part of Germany's squad that won silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
#frankfurt
The set-piece specialist scored 16 goals in 180 Bundesliga appearances. He spent time with FC Bayern and Schalke youth teams, but it was at Augsburg he first made a name for himself as a Bundesliga regular.
He then played in Eredivisie for three seasons after joining PSV in 2020 for €10 million. Eintracht Frankfurt returned him and Mario Götze to Bundesliga, but his spell at the traditional club was unsuccessful.
Max played his last professional game during the 2024/25 season for Greek side Panathinaikos. The left-back was part of Germany's squad that won silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
#frankfurt
1 month ago
Former Germany international Philipp Max has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a career that included 180 Bundesliga appearances, spells in the Netherlands, Greece and ***** an, and three senior caps for his country. Max confirmed the decision in an emotional Instagram post on Sunday. The former Schalke, Augsburg and Eintracht Frankfurt defender had been without a club since leaving ***** anese side Gamba Osaka earlier this year.
"A chapter is coming to an end," Max wrote. "I'm obviously sad that you leave behind something you lived for and worked towards your entire life. I came to the conclusion relatively quickly that the best thing is to hang up my boots now."
Max made his Bundesliga debut with Schalke during the 2013/14 campaign before eventually establishing himself at Augsburg. It was in Bavaria that the left-back became a recognizable Bundesliga figure. Max made 145 top-flight appearances for FCA and developed a reputation as an unusually attack-minded defender, capable of advancing aggressively down the flank and contributing through crosses, set pieces and direct involvement in the final third.
His importance to Augsburg became particularly obvious when he departed for PSV Eindhoven in 2020. Max had developed into such an important part of the club's attacking structure that his exit represented a major tactical loss ahead of the new Bundesliga campaign. The move abroad also coincided with the high point of his international career.
Max earned his first Germany cap in November 2020 and immediately contributed an ***** ist in a 1-0 friendly victory over the Czech Republic. Joachim Löw deployed him as an advanced wing-back, a role that suited the attacking qualities he had demonstrated throughout his Bundesliga career. He ultimately collected three senior international appearances in 2020.
#bundesliga #former #senior
"A chapter is coming to an end," Max wrote. "I'm obviously sad that you leave behind something you lived for and worked towards your entire life. I came to the conclusion relatively quickly that the best thing is to hang up my boots now."
Max made his Bundesliga debut with Schalke during the 2013/14 campaign before eventually establishing himself at Augsburg. It was in Bavaria that the left-back became a recognizable Bundesliga figure. Max made 145 top-flight appearances for FCA and developed a reputation as an unusually attack-minded defender, capable of advancing aggressively down the flank and contributing through crosses, set pieces and direct involvement in the final third.
His importance to Augsburg became particularly obvious when he departed for PSV Eindhoven in 2020. Max had developed into such an important part of the club's attacking structure that his exit represented a major tactical loss ahead of the new Bundesliga campaign. The move abroad also coincided with the high point of his international career.
Max earned his first Germany cap in November 2020 and immediately contributed an ***** ist in a 1-0 friendly victory over the Czech Republic. Joachim Löw deployed him as an advanced wing-back, a role that suited the attacking qualities he had demonstrated throughout his Bundesliga career. He ultimately collected three senior international appearances in 2020.
#bundesliga #former #senior
1 month ago
Endrick's absence from Real Madrid's trip to Germany has a simple explanation: the club is trying to keep him out of the treatment room.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Brazilian forward did not travel with the squad for the friendly against Schalke 04 because he is following an individual programme designed to reduce the risk of further physical problems.
Notably, it is important to note that the decision is not linked to a new injury.
Endrick experienced some muscle discomfort earlier in the week, something Real Madrid have acknowledged, but he has since recovered.
Rather than immediately putting him back into a pre-season match, the club's medical and technical staff have chosen a more cautious route.
#real #according #deportivo #madrid
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Brazilian forward did not travel with the squad for the friendly against Schalke 04 because he is following an individual programme designed to reduce the risk of further physical problems.
Notably, it is important to note that the decision is not linked to a new injury.
Endrick experienced some muscle discomfort earlier in the week, something Real Madrid have acknowledged, but he has since recovered.
Rather than immediately putting him back into a pre-season match, the club's medical and technical staff have chosen a more cautious route.
#real #according #deportivo #madrid
1 month ago
The Open Thread/Daily Merengue is a place where you can discuss anything and everything related to football. Feel free to discuss the topics presented here, or start your very own discussions! The Open thread will be posted every day by one of the mods you'd totally go swimming with: Valyrian Steel, Felipejack, Kung_Fu_Zizou (AKA KFZ), Juninho, Ezek and, of course… yours truly.
Los Blancos play Schalke as part of their.. well, good string of friendlies. Let's see what we see from the boyz today. Hopefully, something to have us head into the season with some optimism.
What's your phyche heading into the season? Optimistic? Not?
Well… If we can be patient and nurture the kid, he can go a long way. Should be a worthwhile investment which also covers a specific gap in our roster.
#merengue #valyrian #steel
Los Blancos play Schalke as part of their.. well, good string of friendlies. Let's see what we see from the boyz today. Hopefully, something to have us head into the season with some optimism.
What's your phyche heading into the season? Optimistic? Not?
Well… If we can be patient and nurture the kid, he can go a long way. Should be a worthwhile investment which also covers a specific gap in our roster.
#merengue #valyrian #steel
1 month ago
Felix Hirschnagl had to do without several key players in the match against Schalke: Jan-Luca Riedl and Enzo dos Santos were with the first team, while Fadi Zarqelain and Luke Fahrenhorst were with the U23s. In addition, Ahmad Najdi, Johann Lasse Jaensch, Peniel Poba, and Hamzath Mohamadou were out with injuries. As a result, the coach largely stuck with the starting lineup that had won the season opener in Oberhausen 4–2. Luis Alaze moved into midfield in place of Najdi, and Liam Kante played defense in place of Lenni Strößner.
BVB started confidently, moving the ball around, and capped off their promising start with a 1–0 lead in the eighth minute. The goal was set up by Tom Faust, who sent Justin Hoy on his way with a diagonal pass. Schalke defender Lasse Deutschmann deflected the captain's cross over the line just before Bjarki Gardarsson could get a shot off. The Black and Yellows dominated the match and created further chances, but the standout Justin Hoy, in particular, lacked both luck and precision in front of goal (16th, 26th). Luis Alaze was unlucky: After a mistake by goalkeeper Kyrylo Khadesevych, he shot on goal from 16 meters, but Amir El Abdouni headed the ball clear of the danger zone (44th minute).
Schalke coach Norbert Elgert had reacted early, making personnel and tactical changes in the 36th minute. These changes took effect immediately after the restart. Swiss player Timo Wiesner was initially denied in a one-on-one situation by BVB goalkeeper Julien Froese, who reacted brilliantly; he then struck a free kick from 18 meters that hit the outside post (51st/52nd). Schalke was much more present and active in the second half. Mika Brocks hit the post in the 72nd minute, while on the other end, Justin Hoy was the standout player and struck the crossbar with a free kick in the 70th minute. All in all, it was a well-deserved derby victory for Borussia.
"After the break, it was a bit of youthful madness. But we put in a lot of effort overall, and maybe that's why we were rewarded. I always believe in karma," summarized coach Felix Hirschnagl, who recalled last year's unfortunate 3–3 draw in the regular season: "Back then, we didn't pull off the derby win in the decisive phase; this time, we did it."
BVB now faces two away games: on Sunday (23 August, 11:00) at VfL Osnabrück, and on Wednesday (26 August, 18:00) at MSV Duisburg.
#schalke #coach
BVB started confidently, moving the ball around, and capped off their promising start with a 1–0 lead in the eighth minute. The goal was set up by Tom Faust, who sent Justin Hoy on his way with a diagonal pass. Schalke defender Lasse Deutschmann deflected the captain's cross over the line just before Bjarki Gardarsson could get a shot off. The Black and Yellows dominated the match and created further chances, but the standout Justin Hoy, in particular, lacked both luck and precision in front of goal (16th, 26th). Luis Alaze was unlucky: After a mistake by goalkeeper Kyrylo Khadesevych, he shot on goal from 16 meters, but Amir El Abdouni headed the ball clear of the danger zone (44th minute).
Schalke coach Norbert Elgert had reacted early, making personnel and tactical changes in the 36th minute. These changes took effect immediately after the restart. Swiss player Timo Wiesner was initially denied in a one-on-one situation by BVB goalkeeper Julien Froese, who reacted brilliantly; he then struck a free kick from 18 meters that hit the outside post (51st/52nd). Schalke was much more present and active in the second half. Mika Brocks hit the post in the 72nd minute, while on the other end, Justin Hoy was the standout player and struck the crossbar with a free kick in the 70th minute. All in all, it was a well-deserved derby victory for Borussia.
"After the break, it was a bit of youthful madness. But we put in a lot of effort overall, and maybe that's why we were rewarded. I always believe in karma," summarized coach Felix Hirschnagl, who recalled last year's unfortunate 3–3 draw in the regular season: "Back then, we didn't pull off the derby win in the decisive phase; this time, we did it."
BVB now faces two away games: on Sunday (23 August, 11:00) at VfL Osnabrück, and on Wednesday (26 August, 18:00) at MSV Duisburg.
#schalke #coach
