Winning run continues as Schalke defeat Wolfsburg 1-0

Five changes to the starting XI

Thilo Kehrer and Weston McKennie missed out after picking up knocks in the win over Mainz. The duo were replaced by Benjamin Stambouli and Max Meyer in the starting XI. Additionally, Domenico Tedesco opted to replace Alessandro Schöpf, Franco di Santo and Marko Pjaca with Bastian Oczipka, Leon Goretzka and Amine Harit. There was a debut in the second half as Pablo Insua came on for his Bundesliga debut after 64 minutes.

Little to report in first half

In freezing temperatures, neither of the teams were able to get our first gear. Both teams only had one real solid chance apiece in the first 45 minutes. Daniel Didavi headed narrowly over in the 24th minute from a corner. Three minutes before the break, Matija Nastasic was denied at point-blank range by Koen Casteels’ exceptional save to keep the game goalless.

Fährmann saves penalty

The change of sides did not lead to a change of fortunes for either team as both sides cancelled one another out. In the 75th minute, suddenly there was action. Matija Nastasic was adjudged to have fouled Riechedly Bazoer in the penalty area. Paul Verhaegh stepped up but his well-struck effort was saved by Schalke’s captain who leapt to his right side and saved the shot.

A goal finally came in the game four minutes from time. Robin Knoche scored for the hosts but thankfully it was in its own goal as he was powerless to prevent Breel Embolo’s goalline cross from entering his own goal.

Fortune favours Schalke

It wasn’t the prettiest game of football but Schalke did what they need to. Their solid defensive showing was rewarded with some fortune going forward.

Due to the international break, the Bundesliga takes a break next weekend. Schalke’s next fixture comes on March 31st against SC Freiburg at 15:30 CET at the VELTINS-Arena.