Game of the Week For Bundesliga Return

The Bundesliga returns with a bang this weekend in the form of the Revierderby, the heated rivalry match between Schalke 04 and Borussia Dortmund. Dortmund and Gelsenkirchen (Schalke’s home city) are separated by a mere 25 miles in the soccer-rich Ruhr Valley. Dortmund slightly lead the all time head-to-head standings, with 33 wins to Schalke’s 32 in Bundesliga encounters. The two clubs have tied each other 30 times.

Last year delivered an absolute classic as Borussia, needing points to move into first place ahead of Bayern with 3 matches remaining in the season, capitulated ingloriously at home. Schalke did the unthinkable and ended up 4-2 winners in their mortal enemy’s own living room. This was undoubtedly the highlight of the Royal Blues’ season as they finished an uncharacteristically woeful 14th in the league. Dortmund fans felt the pain twofold- for the loss of the match, but also their chance at the title- and felt aggrieved at two suspect red cards.   

This season, Borussia are yet again on Bayern’s heels, sitting in 2nd place with 51 points. Schalke are in 6th place on 37 points, just slightly in the running for a European qualification spot. Accuscore’s simulations have predicted both teams to have some issues to finish off the rest of the season after the long hiatus, but this derby is likely to be a blast nevertheless.

Our Dortmund Schalke prediction hinges on a few big personalities, and Dortmund’s wonderkids Erling Haaland and Jadon Sancho are the ones we are focusing on most. Two of the world’s brightest young talents, this duo will be expected to have a big impact if Borussia are to resume league play in good form. However, Dortmund will feel the absence of captain Marco Reus and midfield lynchpin Axel Witsel. Both are doubtful due to injury, so veteran center back Mats Hummels must take the initiative to lead an insanely gifted but immature side.

Schalke manager David Wagner’s first season in charge has had its ups and downs. The Royal  Blues are 13th in the league in goals scored, but a staunch defense has carried them to a respectable place in the table. New loan signing Jean Clair Todibo will be counted on to anchor the back line, but will it prove too much responsibility in his first ever Revierderby? Attacking midfielders Amine Harit and Suat Serdar lead the team in goals, with 7 a piece, but the lack of a reliable striker may prove costly for the team from Gelsenkirchen.  

Saturday’s match up is sure to be a battle, with both pride and points on the line. It’s the ideal match to re-introduce Bundesliga play and an absolute must-see. To see our full Schalke vs. Dortmund prediction sign up for an AccuScore account today. With an AccuScore account you will be able to to see all of the Bundesliga simulations every week including this week’s Game of the week Dortmund vs. Schalke!