FC Schalke 04 celebrated a pivotal 1-0 victory over SC Preußen Münster on Friday evening at the VELTINS-Arena, marking their first win after three defeats. The match, which was significant for both teams, saw Schalke climb higher from the relegation zone, thanks to Pape Meïssa Ba's late goal.
With 62,077 fans packed inside the stadium, including around 6,200 supporters from Münster, the atmosphere underscored the importance of the match. For Schalke, it marked the first time since September 1990 they faced Münster, making the contest historically significant.
Schalke's head coach, Kees van Wonderen, took to the podium after the game, expressing relief. “I believe the happier team won today,” he stated. “This win was for the fans who supported us incredibly for 90 minutes. After everything we've faced personnel-wise, it wasn’t easy. We were missing six offensive players, which affected our tactics.” He praised Ba for his decisive goal and highlighted the team's resilience.
Ba’s goal came at the 86th minute when he took advantage of a rebound, deftly maneuvering around defenders to find the net. His strategic placement was textbook as he shot precisely to the near post, breaking the deadlock. “I wanted to contribute to the success, and luckily I managed to do so,” Ba said. “I’m still new here, and I can adapt well to any role for the team.”
Despite their narrow loss, Preußen Münster showed tenacity throughout the match. Coach Sascha Hildmann felt the game was closely contested and lamented the late goal. “We created several good chances and perhaps should have scored earlier,” he reflected. “We hit the crossbar and had chances, but when the opponent's goalkeeper is the best player on the pitch, it says something about the match.”
The first half ended scoreless but not without action. Münster’s Joshua Mees had the clearest chance early on when he fired off a header, but Loris Karius, making his debut for Schalke, showcased his skills with remarkable saves.
Karius not only proved invaluable with his saves but also demonstrated authority and composure. “I’m incredibly grateful for the faith they have shown in me,” Karius remarked post-match. “I’m happy I could repay them with this performance.” His remarkable double save at the game’s conclusion preserved the shutout. He received praise from various players for his contribution, with Ba noting Karius’s strong showing was decisive for their win.
Schalke stepped up their efforts significantly after halftime. They initiated attacks frequently, with Christopher Antwi-Adjei creating dangerous opportunities down the left. At 63 minutes, they nearly found the back of the net, but Aydin’s shot deflected off the post.
While Schalke celebrated, Münster struggled to capitalize on their chances. A close attempt by Mikkel Kirkeskov kissed the inside of the post just moments after Schalke's near-miss, highlighting the tight competition.
Players from Münster echoed their frustrations at the missed opportunities. Marc Lorenz expressed disappointment, saying, “We clearly deserved at least one point. That last-minute goal hurts.” Mees, reflecting on the match's dynamics, said, “We should never lose such games, especially after having the chances we did.”
Despite the loss, the match's intensity suggested Münster’s potential as they sit closely on the league table to Schalke, now nine points behind the Kings Blues. The defeat kept them hovering just above relegation but provided them with insight for future matches.
With this victory, Schalke’s distance from the relegation spots has widened, providing some breathing room. It reflects Van Wonderen’s successful gamble on new strategies following player injuries. The performance of Karius, combined with Ba’s game-winning goal, highlights the hope brewing within the Schalke camp for their fight against relegation.
Looking forward, Schalke will travel to Berlin for their next match on March 8 against Hertha BSC, hoping to carry this momentum forward. Meanwhile, Münster will host 1. FC Nürnberg on March 9, eager to turn their near-misses this time around and secure needed points.
This match has reminded both sides of the struggles and triumphs associated with the challenges of the 2. Bundesliga, where every point counts significantly as the season nears its climax.