Schalke 04 Faces Tough Test Against Darmstadt 98 Without Key Striker Dzeko
The battle for the 2. Bundesliga top spot heats up tonight as Darmstadt 98 hosts league leaders Schalke 04. However, Schalke will have to navigate this crucial match without star forward Edin Dzeko, who is serving a suspension following a red card against Hannover 96.
Sylla Stepping Up in Dzeko’s Absence
Schalke manager Miron Muslic has confirmed that Moussa Sylla will lead the attack in Dzeko’s place. This presents an opportunity for Sylla, who was a prolific scorer last season, to reignite his form. Despite a recent drought – having not scored in 869 minutes of second-division play – Muslic has expressed confidence in the player’s professionalism and positive attitude.
Darmstadt’s Fortress and Schalke’s Recent Form
Darmstadt enters the match with a formidable home record, having won their last seven 2. Bundesliga games at the Böllenfalltor. They are currently undefeated at home this season with 10 wins and 3 draws. Schalke, although still at the top of the table, has shown some vulnerability recently, dropping points in six of their last nine Rückrunde (second half of the season) matches. Despite this, they remain unbeaten in their last six league games (3 wins, 3 draws).
Head-to-Head History This Season
This will be the third meeting between Darmstadt and Schalke this season. Schalke secured a 1-0 victory in the first league encounter, but Darmstadt responded with a dominant 4-0 win in the 2. DFB-Pokal (German Cup) round of 64.
Where to Watch the Match
Fans can catch the action live on RTL Nitro, Sky, and via livestream on RTL+, sky.de, and WOW. A live ticker will also be available on SPORT1.
A Statistical Look at Schalke’s Success
Interestingly, Schalke’s current position of 51 points after 26 games historically bodes well for promotion. In all 40 previous instances of a team reaching 51 points after 26 games in the single-track 2. Liga, they ultimately achieved promotion.
FAQ
- Is Edin Dzeko playing tonight? No, Edin Dzeko is suspended for this match.
- Who is replacing Dzeko in the starting lineup? Moussa Sylla will start in place of Edin Dzeko.
- Where can I watch the game live? The game will be broadcast on RTL Nitro, Sky, and streamed on RTL+, sky.de, and WOW.
- Is Darmstadt undefeated at home this season? Yes, Darmstadt is undefeated at home in the 2. Bundesliga this season.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Darmstadt’s home form – their consistent wins at the Böllenfalltor develop them a tough opponent for any team, even the league leaders.
Don’t miss the live action! Follow the SPORT1 live ticker for real-time updates and analysis throughout the match: SV Darmstadt 98 gegen FC Schalke 04 im Liveticker bei SPORT1.
