Schalke vs Stuttgart
By Allan
Schalke Vs Stuttgart
Schalke look the stronger of these two teams on paper, but this fixture will be interesting. Schalke have one home match in 2017 and they have managed to hold Bundesliga’s top attacking sides to only one or no goals there. Stuttgart looked impressive in their last fixture against Mainz and there are high chances that the home side can replicate this form away. However, Schalke have a formidable team and the task will not be easy especially considering that Stuttgart are recently promoted and yet to adapt to the Bundesliga.
Analysis
Schalke’s began the campaign with an impressive 2-0 win against last season runner up Leipzig, but were unable to keep the momentum away to Hannover 96.When these sides last met in February, the result was a 1-1 draw. However, Schalke have won four of the last six meetings between these two teams.55% of Schalke’s home matches have seen under 2.5 goals scored.8 of Schalke’s 10 home matches in 2017 have seen under 2.5 goals scored. Stuttgart have scored under one goal over their two opening matches.
After an up and down start to the campaign, Schalke will look to return to winning ways against the newly promoted team.Sttutgart have won the most Bundesliga games over Schalke, which is 42.Schalke however have had more home victories against Stuttgart than any other team with 42 wins. Stuttgart have committed more fouls than any other team with a total of 38 fouls and the game will therefore be expected to be a grueling physical encounter. Tough possession play will be expected with all balls directed towards the forward line.Currently,Schalke lie eighth on the table as Stuttgart are tenth position overall.
Team News
Schalke forward Breel Embolo is doubtful for this game, and Franco Di Santo is also recovering from a shoulder injury. Midfielder Benjamin Stambouli returns to the squad after suspension and this will boost the squad. Stuttgart winger Carlos Mane is missing from action for a number of months. The squad also misses Badstubber who has an adductor injury as well as Insua, Zimmerman and Grgic who all have knee injuries.
Possible Teams
Schalke:
Fahrmann,Kehrer,Naldo,Nastasic,Caligiuri,Goretzka,Bentaleb,Oczipka,Harit,Konoplyanka,Burgstaller
Stuttgart:
Zieler,Beck,Pavard,Baumgartl,Kaminski,Aogo,Mangala,Gentner,Akolo,Brekalo,Terodde
Players to Watch
Nabil Bentaleb and Yevhen Konoplyanka have gelled well in the team so far and will be players worth watching. Leon Goretzka will also have an instrumental role to play in the game. Striker Guido Burgstaller is back in action and will be another player worth observing for Schalke. Striker Simon Terodde will be the main man for Stuttgart and will be key in attack.