Fortuna Dusseldorf's Form and Strategy
Fortuna Dusseldorf has been navigating a season of mixed fortunes in the 2. Bundesliga, currently sitting 9th in the table. Their recent form has been somewhat inconsistent, but they have shown a knack for scoring, averaging 1.77 goals per match. Key players like Isak Bergmann Johannesson and Dawid Kownacki have been instrumental, each netting 7 goals this season. Despite some injury concerns, with players like Emmanuel Iyoha and Marcel Sobottka expected to return soon, the team has managed to maintain a competitive edge. Their recent victory against Karlsruher SC could be a turning point, and with a strong home record against Schalke 04, they will be looking to capitalize on this momentum.
Schalke 04's Challenges and Changes
Schalke 04, on the other hand, finds itself in a more precarious position, sitting 13th in the league. The team has struggled to find consistency, with a recent 0-0 draw against Eintracht Braunschweig highlighting their difficulties in converting opportunities. The addition of Loris Karius as a goalkeeper is a strategic move to bolster their defense, but the team has yet to see a significant impact from this signing. Schalke's top scorer, Moussa Sylla, with 16 goals, will be crucial in their efforts to climb the table. However, their inability to win in their last four matches and a tendency to concede goals could be detrimental against a high-scoring team like Fortuna Dusseldorf.
Head-to-Head Insights
Historically, matches between Fortuna Dusseldorf and Schalke 04 have been closely contested. The most common result has been a 1-1 draw, but Fortuna Dusseldorf has a slight edge, especially at home, where they have won four of the last seven encounters. The goal difference in these meetings is marginally in favor of Fortuna Dusseldorf, and their recent form against Schalke 04 has been more favorable, with only one loss in the last five encounters. This historical context, combined with Fortuna's current form, suggests they have the upper hand going into this match.
Prediction and Conclusion
Given the current dynamics, Fortuna Dusseldorf appears to have the advantage, especially with their strong home performance and Schalke's recent struggles. Both teams have shown a propensity to score, particularly in the latter stages of matches, which suggests that both teams are likely to find the net. However, Fortuna's superior form and home advantage make them the favorites to secure a victory. Expect a competitive match with goals from both sides, but ultimately, Fortuna Dusseldorf should edge out Schalke 04.