Despite Dzeko's brace: Schalke cannot end the crisis

The sporting crisis at promotion favorites FC Schalke 04 continues. Despite taking a 2-0 lead in the 2nd division against relegation candidates Dynamo Dresden, the local club was unable to overcome a 2-2 (0-0) draw. It was the fifth game without a win for Schalke, who remain top of the table for the time being. In the evening, Darmstadt 98 had the chance to overtake them with a win against 1. FC Kaiserslautern. Despite the points, Dresden occupy a relegation place in 17th place.

After a brace from star striker Edin Dzeko (52nd and 70th minute) on his starting debut, Schalke were already 2-0 up. However, an own goal from Hasan Kurucay (78') and a late equalizer from Dynamo central defender Thomas Keller (87') gave the Saxons a point in their relegation battle.

Cautious start, pace after the break

The game started very cautiously, with both teams shying away from taking risks. Dzeko missed the only chance of the first half when, after a misplaced pass from Jonas Sterner, he shot the ball onto the outside of the net from an acute angle instead of into the empty goal.

However, it was a completely different picture after the break. Schalke initially piled on the pressure and were able to celebrate: Dzeko volleyed home after an assist from Adil Aouchiche, who only signed on Monday, and then scored shortly afterwards to make it 2-0. While Schalke then tried to maintain their lead, the visitors pressed for an equalizer in a tense final phase - and were rewarded.