Janik Bachmann: It’ll be a real cup battle

The two sides only met on Friday (24/10), when the Royal Blues ran out 1-0 winners at home in the league. Five days later they face each other again, this time in Darmstadt and in a different competition. “We’re expecting a different type of match – it’ll be a real cup battle,” Bachmann commented. “But we’re ready and fully focused on this game.”

For the 29-year-old, the trip to Hesse will be a special one. Bachmann grew up in the area and, after helping Darmstadt’s U19s win promotion to the Bundesliga, signed his first professional contract with the Lilien. “I gained valuable experience there, but now I want to help us get into the next round.”

It’s the first time this season that Schalke will play three games in a week. “Three matches in eight days is demanding, but the lads are switched on and my batteries are fully charged.” The only downside, he admitted, was the loss of Christian Gomis, who picked up a thigh injury on Friday. Even so, Bachmann is confident ahead of the tie at the Böllenfalltor. “I want to bring energy onto the pitch, make an impact and help wherever the coach needs me.”

There could also be changes in the Darmstadt line-up: star striker Isac Lidberg missed the league meeting through illness but may return for tomorrow night. “With him and Fraser Hornby, they have an established partnership up front,” Bachmann explained. “But we’ve already shown we can handle strong attacks. We want to defend solidly again.” Should the match go the distance, Bachmann is also prepared. “If it goes to penalties, I’ve always stepped up and scored,” he said.