FC Schalke 04 couldn’t quite hold onto their lead and secure all three points against Fortuna Dusseldorf this weekend, but there were a few starters who had strong performances that deserve to be praised.
There is no margin for error in the Bundesliga right now, as less than a full three points separated FC Schalke 04 from second-place RB Leipzig and ninth-place Bayer Leverkusen. The Royal Blues have what it takes to qualify for the Champions League this season, but with the Bundesliga becoming increasingly competitive, they will have to fight tooth and nail if they want to get back to Europe’s top competition.
That’s why Matchday 10’s 3-3 draw with Fortuna Dusseldorf will feel like a loss. Schalke played the better football and had control of the game, but defensive breakdowns gifted Rouwen Hennings the opportunity to grab a hat trick. And with Robert Lewandowski-like efficiency, Hennings twisted the knife, stealing a point from the Royal Blues at the Veltins-Arena.
Despite the disappointing nature of the loss, Schalke did play well. They controlled most of the game, created dangerous chances, and received a few strong individual performances from key players, including their lone striker.
Here is a look at the top three performances from Saturday’s match.