3-1 loss in Leipzig – Defeat to start 2018

No new additions in starting XI

The Knappen decided against throwing their latest recruits in at the deep end against RB Leipzig. Cedric Teuchert missed out with a virus and Marko Pjaca was on the bench to begin with, before being introduced in the 55th minute. Leon Goretzka wasn’t quite able to be in contention for a place in the squad as he is working his way back to full fitness.

Keita's strike deflects in

In a freezing cold Leipzig, a game of great intensity began as both teams‘ high pressing systems led to a game full of heavy challenges and counter attacks. Initially, Schalke were solid at the back and, through Amine Harit and Guido Burgstaller, had the two best opportunities to score early on but were denied by Peter Gulacsi. Alessandro Schöpf also fired a strike narrowly wide of the post.

Following this initial onslaught, the hosts began to find their feet in the fixture. In the 37th minute, RB Leipzig were awarded a penalty as Benjamin Stambouli slipped and caught Jean-Kevin Augustin in the area. The Frenchman picked himself up and took the penalty but Ralf Fährmann pulled off an unbelievable save. However, minutes later, Naby Keita struck from outside the area and his harmless effort deflected off Naldo and found its way past a powerless Ralf Fährmann.

Naldo's equaliser isn't enough

In the second half, both sides looked threatening. Schalke had a bit of fortune when the ball deflected off Cailgiuri and ricocheted onto the post. Minutes after, Daniel Caligiuri was involved once again at the other end. His free-kick found Naldo who headed home for his fourth of the season in the 55th minute.

The game soon became stretched with both sides seeking a decisive strike. The luck favoured with RB Leipzig. Freshly introduced Timo Werner capped off a smart move by the hosts by finishing from close range. Not long after the celebrations had finished for the second goal, the home fans were enjoying a third goal. Bruma’s strike nicked off Naldo to take it past Schalke’s captain in goal at the near post and almost seal the win. Last year’s runners-up gained complete control of the match as they were able to press an increasingly gung-ho Schalke and attack on the break with an abundance of pace. Schalke were unable to muster any chances to spark a late comeback and the game ended 3-1 to the home side.

Next up: Hannover 96

Due to the win, RB Leipzig have leapfrogged Schalke in the Bundesliga table due to the close nature of the top half. The Knappen now head back to Gelsenkirchen hoping to shake off the defeat before next Sunday when they take on Hannover 96 in the VELTINS Arena.