Gelsenkirchen – Schalke 04 has successfully defended its top position in the 2. Bundesliga, securing a vital 1-0 victory over Karlsruher SC on Easter Sunday. This crucial win came despite the absence of star striker Edin Dzeko, who is currently recovering from a shoulder injury. The team, coached by Miron Muslic, bounced back from two consecutive draws, reaffirming their promotion ambitions with a total of 55 points.
Captain Kenan Karaman emerged as the hero of the day, netting the decisive goal in the 72nd minute with a spectacular header. His effort sparked jubilation among the 61,838 spectators in the sold-out Arena, bringing relief after a match where the Royal Blues had keenly felt the absence of Dzeko’s potent presence in the penalty box.
Adding to Dzeko’s injury, Schalke also missed defensive stalwart Nikola Katic. The central defender, who sustained a knee injury during the World Cup playoffs against Italy, faces a potential season-ending spell on the sidelines. Dzeko, also injured while on international duty, expressed optimism about his own return before the end of the season, stating, «We’ll wait two weeks, then we’ll see.» Coach Muslic had previously referred to the Bosnian duo as «the two pillars of our Schalke.»
Kenan Karaman Scores and Subbed Off Due to Injury
Despite the significant absences, Schalke started the game with strong offensive intent. An early goal from Karaman in the 19th minute was disallowed for offside. While the hosts pressed forward, they also left gaps in their defense, though KSC failed to capitalize, with Dzenis Burnic hitting the side netting in the 38th minute.
Schalke continued to push towards the KSC goal, but the team’s struggles in the opposition’s box highlighted the missing finishing touch typically provided by Dzeko. Ultimately, Karaman’s magnificent header provided the breakthrough. However, shortly after his pivotal goal, he had to be substituted due to an injury, further adding to Schalke’s list of concerns.