To the top with a bulwark? Schalke's path to the top tier - Schalke 04’s promotion push hinges on three high-stakes December clashes
FC Schalke 04, following the international break, confronts three pivotal matches that could influence their promotion prospects in the 2. Bundesliga. The team, currently in a direct promotion position with 27 points, boasts the division's tightest defense and has exhibited resilience throughout the season.
Schalke's defensive prowess is anchored by the commanding center-back partnership of Nikola Katić and Hasan Kurucay. Katić, acting as the defensive 'boss', marshals the backline, while Kurucay has chipped in with three goals this season. This duo has been instrumental in Schalke's impressive record of 6 clean sheets in 12 matches.
Looking ahead, Schalke has three crucial derbies and a trio of important matches. They commence with an away clash against Fortuna Düsseldorf on December 5, followed by a home fixture against 1. FC Nürnberg on December 14, and another away game against Eintracht Braunschweig on December 21. These matches could significantly impact their promotion chances.
Schalke's strong defensive record, with only 7 goals conceded, is a testament to their resilience. With Katić and Kurucay leading the defense, the team appears well-equipped to navigate the upcoming challenges. The next three matches will be pivotal in determining their promotion fate in the 2. Bundesliga.
