This Season's Kickoff: A Classic Clash - Schalke vs. Hertha in the 2. Bundesliga Debut
First-leg encounter in the second division's traditional match-up: Schalke vs Hertha
Let's dive right into the action! The 2025/26 2. Bundesliga season opener promises to be a spectacle, with Schalke 04 squaring off against Hertha BSC. Despite the full schedules not being out yet, football enthusiasts are already buzzing about this epic clash.
On the Pitch Performance
The previous 2024/25 season saw Schalke finish just one spot ahead of Hertha in the 14th position, while Hertha positioned itself in 11th. Both clubs have a rich history of competing in the Bundesliga, but they found themselves in the second division during recent years [1][2][3].
The Staging Posts
For this grand showdown, Schalke will be hosting Hertha at the electrifying VELTINS-Arena, where fans can anticipated an unparalleled sports atmosphere. On the other hand, Hertha calls the iconic Olympiastadion in Berlin home, a monumental stadium opened in 1936 with a capacity of a whopping 74,649. Hertha averaged an impressive attendance of over 50,000 spectators during the last season, with the stadium often reaching its full capacity [4].
Predictions and Expectations
With mid-to-lower table finishes behind them, this high-profile match is anticipated to be a fiercely competitive encounter. Schalke, given their home advantage and the fervor at the VELTINS-Arena, may hold the upper hand. However, Hertha's experience and the backing of one of Germany's largest stadiums make them formidable opponents. This game could set the tone for both teams as they strive to climb the 2. Bundesliga rankings in the 2025/26 season.
It's worth noting that the fixture lists for both the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga for 2025/26 were set to be unveiled on June 27, 2025. This confirmation solidifies Schalke vs. Hertha as the opening game three weeks before the Bundesliga's top division's commencement [1][5]. Get ready for a football extravaganza like no other!
Football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the 2025/26 2. Bundesliga season opener, a classic clash between Schalke 04 and Hertha BSC, as it promises to be a spectacle, featuring events from Europe's second divisions. This high-profile match, scheduled to take place at the VELTINS-Arena and Olympiastadion, is predicted to set the tone for both teams, as they aim to excel in European sports leagues.