Schalke is looking to bounce back after its 0-4 loss to Darmstadt 98 in the cup. However, the task against Karlsruher SC will be difficult, especially given the strikers Schalke is missing.

The match between Karlsruher SC and FC Schalke 04 on Saturday (1 p.m.) is essentially just a clash between the seventh-place team and the first-place team. But the race is tight in the 2. Bundesliga.

If KSC defeats the Royal Blues, they would be within three points of Coach Miron Muslic’s team, which is looking to bounce back after Wednesday’s 0-4 DFB Cup loss to Darmstadt 98.

Another loss or a draw could see Schalke lose its top spot in the standings. At the press conference ahead of the away game at KSC, Muslic addressed the aftermath of the Darmstadt defeat and the KSC match, where he’ll have to do without four forwards; in total, six S04 players are sidelined.

Miron Muslic on…

…the roster: “The most positive thing: We don’t have any new injured players. Vitalie Becker has done everything over the past two to two and a half days and will return to the starting lineup. Otherwise, the roster remains unchanged.”

…the cup exit: “We have to be able to take a hard look at ourselves; our performance on Wednesday wasn’t good enough. We’ve grown steadily as a team, but a brief setback like this can also be very important for our continued growth.”

…possible further changes to the starting lineup: “We have a few absences on offense—there’s no denying that. In the past, we’ve never complained or whined. It’s always about performance. There are certainly games where very little goes right. It’s not pleasant, but it’s part of the game. I’m sure we’ll respond as a team. We still have a few options up front.”

… on the opponent from Karlsruhe: “KSC is the next top-tier team we’ll face—with clear processes and a clear structure. A team that will demand everything from us. That’s why we have to be fully focused.”

Here’s how FC Schalke could line up against Karlsruher SC

Karius – Ayhan, Katic, Kurucay – Gantenbein, El-Faouzi, Schallenberg, Becker – Bachmann, Karaman – Sylla

Absent: Antwi-Adjei (calf injury), T. Becker (torn medial ligament), Gomis (thigh injury), E. Höjlund (foot injury), Kalas (knee injury), Lasme (calf injury)

At risk of suspension: Gantenbein