FC Schalke 04 is going into the top match against Borussia Dortmund with confidence. In the first women’s derby in history, “there is no need to hide from BVB,” says coach Stefan Colmsee.

FC Schalke 04 was extremely happy about the 1-0 win at FC Iserlohn last Sunday. The away win against the third-placed team means that the real top match they had hoped for will take place against Borussia Dortmund on Sunday (4 p.m., RS live ticker).

BVB is going into the first women’s derby in history with just one point ahead. Schalke has seven wins and two draws in the Westphalia League, BVB has won eight times and lost once. With a win at the Parkstadion, the Royal Blues could knock BVB off the throne again.

“It was a very important win against a very strong opponent, which keeps us on the path to staying at the top that we have planned for ourselves,” said a proud Schalke coach Stefan Colmsee after the win in Iserlohn. This means that they can prepare for the top game against Dortmund in peace.

Despite the special circumstances, they don’t want to change much about the usual processes. There will be no major changes. “We want to stick to our routines, to the usual training rhythm. We are preparing for this game like we do for any other. I think we are doing well to focus in this way,” explains Colmsee.

The coach knows, of course, that for many players it will be the biggest game of their careers so far: “It is noticeable that a lot is happening around the game. But we want to concentrate on what we can do: play football.” Even if the tension will certainly increase over the course of the week.

When I look at my team, I also know that I have a very good squad, with experienced players and a few young wild ones.

Stefan Colmsee

The aim is to win back pole position from BVB. “A win or a defeat doesn’t change anything for now. No one has ever been promoted in October or November. But we would of course like to regain the lead in the table with a win,” says Colmsee confidently.

Even if the S04 coach sees FC Iserlohn and perhaps also Bielefeld II in the promotion battle until the end of the season, BVB and Schalke are of course the big favorites to make it to the regional league. “Both teams have individual and team qualities. We know that Dortmund has signed some experienced players in recent years,” explains Colmsee. “But when I look at my team, I also know that I have a very good squad, with experienced players and a few young wild ones.”

His conclusion: “In terms of quality, we don’t have to hide from BVB and that’s how we will perform.” The Gelsenkirchen native promises: “We will bring the attributes that define Schalke 04, namely fighting spirit and passion, onto the pitch from the first to the last minute.”