On May 2, 2025, the atmosphere at the Veltins-Arena in Gelsenkirchen is electric as FC Schalke 04 prepares to face SC Paderborn 07 on the 32nd matchday of the 2. Bundesliga. Kickoff is set for 18:30, and fans are eager to see if Paderborn can secure crucial points in their quest for promotion.
SC Paderborn enters the match sitting in fifth place, just one point shy of the relegation playoff spot and four points behind Hamburger SV, who occupy the direct promotion position. The stakes are high for the visitors, who need a victory after a disappointing draw against SV Elversberg last week, where they conceded an equalizer in stoppage time. Coach Lukas Kwasniok expressed his frustration post-match, saying, "I have never felt so empty." His team is determined to bounce back and apply pressure on their rivals with a strong performance against Schalke.
Meanwhile, Schalke's situation is less critical as they have effectively secured their place in the league for next season. However, the team has struggled recently, going three games without a win, which has led to growing unrest among fans and within the club. Kees van Wonderen, Schalke's outgoing coach, has pushed back against accusations of a lack of motivation from his players, stating, "For me, the air is not out at all. I see players who want to give everything."
Historically, Schalke has a strong record against Paderborn, boasting six wins, two draws, and just one defeat in their nine previous official matches. At home, they remain unbeaten in four encounters against the East Westphalians, making them a formidable opponent in Gelsenkirchen. However, the absence of key players Kenan Karaman and Derry Murkin due to suspensions could impact their performance. This season, only Ron Schallenberg has logged more minutes than Murkin and Karaman, highlighting their importance to the squad.
Paderborn, on the other hand, has demonstrated impressive away form this season, losing only two matches on the road, the best record in the league. Yet, they have struggled to maintain leads, dropping eight points after being ahead in their last five games. Kwasniok will be keen to tighten the defense and leverage their away strength to secure a vital win.
Both teams feature potent offensive threats that could shape the outcome of the match. Schalke's Moussa Sylla has been in fine form, netting 16 goals this season, particularly dangerous in the final third of matches. Paderborn's Filip Bilbija has also been impactful, contributing directly to 16 goals. Their performances will be crucial in what promises to be an exciting contest.
Fans eager to catch the match can watch it live on Sky, WOW, and OneFootball, with the latter offering a pay-per-view option for €4.99. The game will not be available on free television, but highlights will be accessible on the ZDF Sportstudio's YouTube channel starting Sunday night.
As the clock counts down to kickoff, the tension builds. Will Paderborn seize the opportunity to climb the standings, or can Schalke turn their fortunes around and deliver a much-needed win at home? The stage is set for a thrilling encounter in the 2. Bundesliga.
