Schalke 04 and Hertha Berlin are set to clash in Bundesliga 2. Schalke aims to bounce back from a poor season, while Hertha has shown promise under Stefan Leitl. The prediction favors an away win for Hertha, citing their momentum and strategic additions.
Two former Bundesliga giants, Schalke 04 and Hertha Berlin, are set to clash in an eagerly anticipated curtain-raiser for the 2. Bundesliga season. The match, scheduled for Friday night at the Veltins-Arena, sees both teams keen to start the season strong after underwhelming performances last term.
Schalke 04, a Champions League semi-finalist in 2011, has since faced a decline marred by financial difficulties. This season marks their fourth in the 2. Bundesliga in five years, with Miron Muslic, formerly of Plymouth Argyle, now at the helm. Despite finishing 14th last season, Schalke is expected to contend for promotion. However, their recent form has been patchy, with only two wins in six pre-season friendlies, including a 4-2 defeat to Sevilla.
Muslic has brought in new faces, including Nikola Katic, and extended Loris Karius's stay. Key departures include Derry Murkin and Tobias Mohr, with Kenan Karaman sidelined due to injury.
Hertha Berlin's journey back to the Bundesliga has also been hampered by financial constraints. After finishing ninth and 11th in previous campaigns, Stefan Leitl's arrival injected hope. Under Leitl, Hertha lost only three of their final 12 matches. Pre-season results have been promising, with wins over lower-league sides and a narrow loss to Brondby.
Key players like Jonjoe Kenny and Florian Niederlechner have departed, but Paul Seguin and Maurice Krattenmacher have been brought in. Dawid Kownacki, with 13 goals last season, is expected to partner Fabian Reese up front.
The prediction leans towards an away win for Hertha Berlin. Despite the pressure on Schalke to perform, Hertha appears to be building momentum. Leitl's organized side, bolstered by smart additions, may prove too strong for the hosts, securing three points for Hertha as they return to the capital.
Verdict: Away win
Best odds: 5/4
Bookmaker: Luckster