During the 20th round of the 2. Bundesliga, league leaders Schalke 04 fell to a 0‑2 defeat at home to VfL Bochum. The loss threatens the “Königsblau” team’s hold on the top spot, as Darmstadt and Paderborn become immediate challengers, while Bochum ascended to eighth place.
The match opened with a swift counter‑attack from the hosts. In the first minute, Koji Miyoshi capitalised on a short, flat pass to give Bochum an early lead. After that, Schalke appeared undisturbed by the early deficit but struggled to generate real danger against the Bochum defence. The hosts dictating play, skilfully exploiting the left side and exploiting the right side, appeared vulnerable.
Overall, the game remained intensely contested with many midfield duels. Schalke attempted to impose control, yet inaccurate passing stifled any genuine goal‑scoring opportunities. Bochum remained threatening whenever they found space in transition, and despite a few stoppages due to injuries, their defensive line stayed solid.
Just before halftime, Bochum took the lead again. A turnover in Schalke’s own box launched a quick break on the left; Holtzmann supplied a precise pass to the centre where Philipp Hofmann struck a well‑placed shot from short range to make it 2‑0 in the 43rd minute. The hosts entered the break with a clear advantage; the half‑time analysis recognised Bochum’s superior ball control and the more potent chances, whereas Schalke struggled to breach the home side’s defensive stability.
The second half saw a range of substitutions. Bochum introduced Farid Alfa‑Ruprecht for Gerrit Holtmann, while Schalke brought in Edin Džeko for Mika Wallentowitz. In the opening phase, Bochum remained solid, but Schalke increased pressure, with a promising opportunity from Karaman that was thwarted by keeper Horn. The hosts kept a vigilant shape in set‑pieces, limiting further opportunities.
A brief surge from the visitors occurred when a Džeko goal appeared to level the score, but the VAR review saw the goal cancelled for a handball before the ball was first taken. Throughout the closing part, Bochum focused on counter‑attacks and defended their lead resolutely, preventing Schalke from mounting a decisive comeback. Despite conceding, the hosts managed to keep the match under control and maintain the advantage.
In the end, Bochum secured a deserved 2‑0 win thanks to the early and well‑executed goals. The game showcased Bochum’s offensive efficiency and defensive steadiness, while Schalke, despite greater possession, failed to find a suitable answer.
Other Saturday afternoon fixtures ended with Braunschweig 1-0 Karlsruhe and KÍ (Kiel) 1-2 FC Fürth.
