Hertha Berlin vs Schalke 04 on 17 January
On January 17, 2026, the Bundesliga 2 showdown between Hertha Berlin and Schalke 04 will take place at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. With both teams eyeing a push for promotion, this encounter is a crucial one for their ambitions in the tournament. Hertha, having been inconsistent, needs a win to solidify their playoff chances, while Schalke is fighting to keep their hopes alive. Expect a high-stakes battle that will have significant implications for both teams' postseason aspirations.
Hertha Berlin: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Hertha Berlin comes into this match with a mixed record in their last five outings, showing a strong attacking presence but struggling defensively. The team's tactical setup is primarily focused on possession-based play and building through the midfield, often using short passing and quick transitions. They average 58% possession, with an impressive pass accuracy of 84%. However, their xG (expected goals) per match suggests that they often overperform their actual goal tally, which indicates a lack of clinical finishing. Their defense, on the other hand, is vulnerable, especially in aerial duels, where they concede a high number of headers from set-pieces.
Key players like striker Jhon Cordoba have been in good form, contributing with both goals and assists. However, their engine in the midfield, Lucas Tousart, has been sidelined with an injury, which could affect the balance of their build-up play. In his absence, the onus will fall on young playmaker Ivan Sunjic to drive the midfield, with an emphasis on ball retention and tempo control.
Schalke 04: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Schalke 04 has had an even more turbulent run in their last five matches, struggling for consistency. Their primary tactic revolves around high pressing and quick transitions, looking to capitalize on the opponent’s mistakes. They average 52% possession but tend to create chances from counter-attacks and wide play. Their xG statistics indicate a well-rounded attacking strategy, with a strong focus on creating opportunities from crosses and through balls into the box. Defensively, Schalke has shown resilience, conceding fewer goals than expected, thanks to solid performances from their goalkeeper, Alexander Schwolow, who has a save percentage of over 75% this season.
Top scorer Simon Terodde is the focal point of their attack, and his ability to hold up the ball and bring teammates into play will be crucial. Schalke's midfield is likely to be anchored by the industrious Florian Flick, whose work rate will be essential to disrupt Hertha's build-up play. Schalke's defense will be tested, particularly in one-on-one situations, where their centre-backs will need to handle the physicality of Cordoba and other Hertha forwards.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In their previous five meetings, Hertha Berlin has held a slight edge over Schalke 04, winning three of those encounters and losing two. Notably, their most recent meeting ended in a 1-1 draw, showcasing the tactical balance between the two sides. Hertha's home advantage has typically been a factor, with Schalke finding it difficult to break them down at the Olympiastadion. This season, however, both teams have struggled with consistency, and there is no clear psychological edge. What will make the difference in this encounter is the ability of both teams to adapt to each other's style of play under pressure.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most critical matchups will occur in the midfield, where Schalke's Florian Flick will likely face Hertha's Ivan Sunjic. Flick's ability to break up play and disrupt Sunjic's rhythm could go a long way in nullifying Hertha's midfield dominance. Additionally, the battle between Hertha's left-back Maximilian Mittelstädt and Schalke's right-winger Marius Bülter will be crucial. Bülter has been a constant threat down the wing, while Mittelstädt's pace and defensive awareness will be put to the test.
In attack, the one-on-one duel between Hertha's Cordoba and Schalke's central defenders will determine who controls the game’s tempo. If Cordoba can exploit spaces in Schalke's defense, it will put Hertha in a strong position to create chances. If Schalke can neutralize him, they will feel more confident in pushing forward and setting up counter-attacks.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Hertha Berlin is likely to dominate possession in this match, with their superior passing ability and pressing system allowing them to dictate the tempo. Schalke will rely on quick counter-attacks, looking to catch Hertha on the break. A key factor will be the effectiveness of both teams’ full-backs in stopping crosses and preventing quick transitions. Schalke’s high pressing game will also test Hertha's defensive structure, especially in the absence of Tousart in midfield.
The most likely scenario is a closely contested match with chances for both sides. Given Hertha’s attacking strength and Schalke's counter-attacking style, expect a fast-paced game with plenty of goal-scoring opportunities. A 2-1 win for Hertha Berlin seems the most probable outcome, with the home team’s offensive quality likely to edge out Schalke’s defensive solidity.
Final Thoughts
The match between Hertha Berlin and Schalke 04 promises to be a tactical battle that will hinge on midfield control and the ability to exploit spaces in defense. Hertha's attacking strength and Schalke's counter-attacking prowess will make for an intriguing spectacle. The key question this match will answer is whether Hertha can finally capitalize on their home advantage or if Schalke will show resilience to pull off an upset on the road.
