Patrik Schick's Determination to Reach DFB Cup Final
Striker Patrik Schick (27) expressed his ambition to lead Bayer Leverkusen back to the DFB Cup final after the team's 3-1 win over Paderborn in the round of 16. "Many big teams are already out. That's better for us, of course. But – the cup is completely different to the Bundesliga. We go from day to day, seeing who we play in the next round. Reaching the final is definitely our goal," he said post-match.
Schick's Comeback Trail
Schick is making positive strides after addressing months of injury issues, primarily affecting his adductors and calf. "Of course I'm happy that I didn't have to wait long for goals after the long break. That gives me a lot of confidence. I'm very happy, but I still have to work, because I'm not yet at 100 percent. After such a long time, it's still not easy. But it's going as we planned. Everything is okay," Schick shared about his recovery process.
Schick's Goal-Scoring Form
Schick has notched up two goals in his three last outings in six days, including the one against Paderborn. His successful strike against Paderborn was a true striker's goal, as Jeremie Frimpong found him in position at the first post in a simple, effective move. Furthermore, Schick also provided the assist for Victor Boniface in the 1-1 draw against Dortmund.
Schick's Role in Bayer Leverkusen's Success
Schick's contributions have significantly impacted Bayer Leverkusen's performance in both the DFB Cup and Bundesliga. He played a key role in the team's dramatic comeback victory against 1. FC Köln in the DFB Cup, notching a brace as Leverkusen came back from 2-0 down to win 3-2 in extra time, with Victor Boniface sealing the win in the 98th minute.
Moreover, in the Bundesliga, Schick has been in excellent scoring form, netting 14 goals in his last 11 appearances. This includes a four-goal haul against Freiburg on Matchday 15 and a hat-trick against Heidenheim on Matchday 11. Schick's partnership with Victor Boniface has been particularly promising, providing Leverkusen with a potent attacking duo.
Bayer Leverkusen's Upcoming Challenges
As Bayer Leverkusen prepares for their upcoming Bundesliga and DFB Cup matches, Patrik Schick is determined to continue his form and lead the team towards their goals.
"I've been waiting a long time for this," he said after his goal against Paderborn. "That was a striker's goal, that's the move a striker has to make. Jeremie found me at the first post. It was very easy on the right."
With Schick back and in form, Bayer Leverkusen will be looking to solidify their position in the DFB Cup and Bundesliga title race. "I still have to work, because I'm not yet at 100 percent," Schick pointed out, emphasizing his commitment to the team and his determination to reach the DFB Cup final.
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