The upcoming Bundesliga 2 match between Elversberg and Schalke 04 is generating excitement as both teams prepare to face off at the URSAPHARM-Arena an der Kaiserlinde on December 20, 2024. The clash is scheduled for 18:30, and with both teams having much at stake, fans are eager to see how events will play out.
Elversberg is currently riding high, positioned 7th on the table with 28 points accumulated from 16 matches. The team has displayed remarkable efficiency, scoring 37 goals at an impressive average of 2.06 goals per match. Defensively, they have also shown consistency, conceding only 21 goals this season. Recent home matches speak volumes about the team's capabilities; they secured victories over notable challengers like Eintracht Braunschweig, winning 3-0, and edged Nuremberg 2-1. Despite suffering a defeat against SC Paderborn recently, the team's overall performance has positioned them as serious contenders.
Under the guidance of coach Horst Steffen, Elversberg is expected to maintain its traditional 4-2-3-1 formation. Though they face some injuries, particularly on the defensive front with Robin Fellhauer sidelined due to an ankle injury, they still have resources to rely on. Fisnik Asllani, the team's top scorer with 10 goals, is set to be pivotal, along with playmaker Luca Schnellbacher, who contributes significantly to their attacking play.
On the other side, Schalke 04 is experiencing a challenging season, currently ranked 14th with just 17 points. Their goal statistics reveal significant gaps, having scored 30 times but allowing 35 goals, averaging almost two goals conceded per match. This defensive frailty has raised eyebrows, especially when combining recent away performances which include draws and losses. The latest outing saw Schalke drawing 1-1 against Fortuna Düsseldorf and prior to this, they held a strong offensive against SC Paderborn with a 4-2 win, juxtaposed with their narrow 3-2 loss against Hamburg.
Coach Kees van Wonderen’s tactics will also rely on the 4-2-3-1 setup, yet the team grapples with additional challenges due to injuries. Key players such as experienced goalkeeper Ralf Fährmann and Michael Langer are both ruled out with knee injuries, leading to apprehensions about the team's defensive solidity. Moussa Sylla, who has also contributed significantly to the scoring with 9 goals, will be the one to watch if Schalke aims to snap their unfortunate away streak.
Historically, the encounters between Elversberg and Schalke have been close, with recent matches indicating competitive balance. Interestingly, their last meeting ended as a 1-1 stalemate on April 19, 2024, but prior to this, Elversberg managed to secure victory with a 2-1 win on November 10, 2023. Given the current state of both clubs, Elversberg seems to be the favourite, leveraging their attacking prowess and home advantage.
Betting odds reflect this sentiment, with various bookies giving Elversberg the edge at around 2.34, compared to Schalke's 3.34 and draw odds at 4.02. This aligns with the analysis from the APWin team which pointed toward the prospect of either a draw or Schalke securing the match as potential outcomes.
For those interested in catching the action live, the match will be available via the OneFootball streaming platform allowing supporters to follow their teams freely and without interruptions.
Overall, anticipation is building for this Bundesliga 2 matchup, with both teams needing to perform at their best. Fans will be eager to see if Elversberg can continue their strong form or if Schalke can finally find their swagger and solidify their standings as they work to rise up the ranks of the league.
