Hoffenheim vs Schalke 04 Match Preview
Hoffenheim has collected maximum points from two fixtures so far. They have shown two sides to their character; primarily, the team does not fear going a goal down as they rebounded back on the opening day to win 4-1 after trailing 0-1. Secondly, they do not lose energy and keep trying to find the back of the net as showed by their display against St Pauli.
Schalke, on the other hand, has shown two very negative traits. They have shown that their defence is rather weak without the presence of Heiko Westermann, Marcelo Jose Bordon and Rafinha. Christoph Metzelder has not defended well and thus, will have to bear the wrath of Schalke fans if his poor displays continue; this is also down to the fact that he in the past played for Borussia Dortmund.
This clash in the previous season would have been between defence and offence. However, due to Felix Magath’s newest signings Raul, Klaas Jan Huntelaar and Jose Manuel Jurado, the picture seems very different this time around. Add to that the talents of Ivan Rakitic, Jefferson Farfan and Jermaine Jones and Schalke are ready to score goals! Thus, this match promises to provide goals and plenty of “amazing moments”.
Hoffenheim vs Schalke 04 Match Report
Hoffenheim were the better team but neither team really managed to put away their chances. Hoffenheim’s coach Ralf Rangnick was not satisfied despite having picked up three points. Hoffenheim opened the scoring when captain Andreas Beck sent a lovely cross into the box. Isaac Vorsah headed in for 1-0.
Schalke tried to get themselves back in the match and in truth, would have done so had it not been for Hoffe keeper Tom Starke. Klaas Jan Huntelaar despite not scoring had a very good debut. He headed in from a Christoph Moritz cross only to be denied at the last moment by Starke. Joel Matip also sent a cross into the box only for Raul to head wide.
In injury time, Hoffenheim was awarded a free-kick just outside the box. Sejad Salihovic stood up and took it. The ball hit the post and deflected off Manuel Neuer into the back of the net. The game ended 2-0 to Hoffenheim.
