In a crucial matchup in the 2. Bundesliga, FC Schalke 04 hosted SSV Ulm at the Veltins Arena on Sunday, April 6, 2025, with both teams looking to solidify their positions in the league. Schalke, aiming for stability and a stronger performance next season, sought to build on their recent morale-boosting 3:3 draw against Fürth. Meanwhile, Ulm was fighting for survival, sitting precariously at 17th place and needing every point to avoid relegation.
Schalke’s last match showcased their resilience as they clawed back from a 1:3 deficit to earn a draw, with two late goals scored in the 84th minute and deep into stoppage time. The match had its share of drama, including a controversial penalty awarded against Schalke, and an injury to goalkeeper Loris Karius, who had to be substituted. Despite these setbacks, the team displayed a fighting spirit that fans hoped would carry through to their home game against Ulm.
Ulm, on the other hand, entered the match with newfound confidence after breaking a seven-game winless streak with a 2:1 victory over Darmstadt. This win was significant as it marked the first time the team scored more than one goal in a match since early February. Under new coach Robert Lechleiter, Ulm had secured four out of six possible points in their first two games, closing the gap to the relegation zone to just one point. However, their away form had been dismal, with no wins in eleven matches, which made the upcoming clash against a historically stronger Schalke team even more daunting.
The match kicked off at 13:30, with both teams aware of the stakes involved. Schalke, despite their struggles at home—having only earned 17 points from 13 matches—were favorites to win. The team’s offensive prowess, featuring top scorers Kenan Karaman and Moussa Sylla, who combined for 27 goals this season, was expected to challenge Ulm’s defense, which had allowed only 33 goals, making it the fifth-best in the league.
As the match progressed, it became evident that Ulm was determined to put up a solid defensive performance. They aimed to capitalize on Schalke’s vulnerabilities, particularly their tendency to concede late goals. Ulm’s strategy revolved around maintaining a compact defense and looking for counter-attacking opportunities. The first half was tightly contested, with both teams struggling to create clear chances.
In the 40th minute, Ulm struck first, taking the lead with a goal from Higl, sending the visiting fans into a frenzy. This goal put Schalke under pressure, needing to respond quickly to avoid falling further behind. The home crowd, known for their passionate support, rallied behind their team, urging them to find an equalizer before halftime.
Despite a spirited effort, Schalke was unable to convert their chances in the first half, and they went into the break trailing 0:1. The second half promised to be a test of character for Schalke, as they needed to show their resilience and ability to bounce back from adversity.
As the second half unfolded, Schalke increased their attacking intensity, pushing players forward in search of an equalizer. However, Ulm’s defense held firm, demonstrating their organizational skills and discipline. Schalke’s attempts to penetrate Ulm’s backline were met with resistance, and the visitors looked to exploit any gaps left in Schalke’s defense.
With time running out, Schalke continued to apply pressure, but Ulm remained resolute. The match became a battle of wills, with both teams fully aware of the implications of the result. Schalke’s offensive players, including Karaman and Sylla, were constantly probing for openings, but Ulm’s goalkeeper made crucial saves to keep his team in the lead.
As the match approached its conclusion, Schalke’s frustration grew, and they began to take more risks, leaving themselves vulnerable to Ulm’s counter-attacks. Ulm, sensing an opportunity to secure a vital away win, tried to exploit the spaces left by Schalke’s aggressive play.
In the end, the match concluded with a 0:1 victory for SSV Ulm, a result that sent shockwaves through the league. This win was monumental for Ulm, providing a significant boost in their fight against relegation and marking their first away victory since September 2024. Schalke, on the other hand, faced questions about their home form and defensive vulnerabilities, as they failed to capitalize on their chances and succumbed to a team fighting for survival.
As the dust settled on this intense encounter, the implications for both teams were clear. Ulm’s victory not only lifted them out of the relegation zone temporarily but also gave them a crucial confidence boost ahead of their remaining fixtures. Schalke, meanwhile, would need to regroup and reassess their strategy as they continued to navigate the challenges of the 2. Bundesliga.
Fans could catch highlights of the match on DAZN shortly after the final whistle, with the excitement of the 2. Bundesliga continuing to unfold as the season draws to a close. Both teams would need to reflect on their performances, as the race for survival and promotion intensifies in the coming weeks.
