FC Schalke 04 must pick themselves up again after the 1:6 debacle against RB Leipzig. Because already on Saturday, 1. FC Köln comes to the Arena.

There are days that are simply to be forgotten: FC Schalke 04 experienced such a Tuesday evening against RB Leipzig on 24 January 2023.

The team at the bottom of the Bundesliga went down 1:6 against RB Leipzig. At half-time, the score was already 0:4 from Schalke’s point of view. Even though the second 45 minutes were better, the final score was 1:6 – a result that is simply not worthy of FC Schalke 04.

Schalke coach Thomas Reis saw it similarly in his analysis. “Congratulations to RB Leipzig on the highly deserved victory – even at this level. It was an absolutely disappointing performance. We could only match the performance in Frankfurt in parts of the second half,” said a disappointed Reis.

The football coach went on to sum up: “In the break I clearly said that we have to present ourselves differently and show that we have heart and stand our ground, even if we are 0:4 behind. If, as in the first half, you don’t take on any duels and let the opponent run, then we have no business in the Bundesliga if we repeat this performance. We knew that Leipzig are strong footballers. For me, the decisive factor was that we didn’t really fight the duels and gave escort and let the opponent come all the way to the sixteen. I can only apologise to the crowd. Because you can’t present yourself like that at home. On Sunday we have to show a different face. “

On Sunday (15.30, RevierSport-Liveticker) FC Schalke 04 will play again. Then 1. FC Köln will come to the Veltins-Arena. And Cologne had a furious start to the year 2023: While Schalke lost 0:3 in Frankfurt and 1:6 against Leipzig, Cologne won 7:1 against Bremen and drew 1-1 with Bayern.

But it should also be clear: If Schalke want to keep their hopes up of staying in the Bundesliga, then they must show signs of life against 1. FC Köln in the form of three points!