FC Schalke 04 achieved a vital 3-2 away victory over SC Paderborn 07 during the final matchday of the 2. Bundesliga, securing a crucial match ball in the promotion race.
The exciting match started with the home side taking the lead. Laurin Curda struck a sharp volley in the 13th minute to give Paderborn an edge. Stefano Marino increased the lead 2-0 in the 26th minute after capitalizing on a deflection from Karius.
However, Schalke showed great determination and mounted a comeback. Dejan Ljubicic notched the first goal for the Kings in the 35th minute, finishing directly from a Ndiaye cross. Just before halftime, Adil Aouchiche managed to equalize at 2-2 after Sylla’s shot was saved by Paderborn goalkeeper Seimen, allowing Aouchiche to poke the ball under the crossbar.
The second half remained tense, but it was Ljubicic once more who put Schalke ahead in the 83rd minute. Following a cross from El-Faouzi, Sylla advanced the ball to Ljubicic, who scored from seven yards out to make the score 3-2.
With this win, Schalke players can now secure their promotion during the match against Fortuna Düsseldorf next Saturday. Meanwhile, Paderborn now holds a mere single point lead above the relegation zone standings.
The afternoon of fixtures also included a 2-1 win for VfL Bochum against Greuther Fürth, and a 1-0 victory for 1. FC Nürnberg over 1. FC Magdeburg.
