Schalke 04 before the cup duel: Becker questionable, Porath as a solution?

Schalke 04 before the cup duel: Becker questionable, Porath as a solution?

On October 29, 2025, things really get going for FC Schalke 04 in the DFB Cup when the team meets SV Darmstadt 98 at the Merck Stadium. After a solid home game that ended with a 1-0 win, coach Miron Muslic wants to get his players excited about the next win. “We want to reach the next round of the DFB Cup,” Muslic announces optimistically.

But the signs are anything but simple. Several key players are not available to the coach before the duel: Christian Gomis will be out for several weeks due to injury, while Christopher Antwi-Adjei, Timo Becker, Emil Höjlund, Tomas Kalas, Bryan Lasme and Zaid Tchibara are also on the injury list. “These are not ideal conditions, but I also see this as an opportunity for other players,” explains Muslic. There is news regarding Vitalie Becker, who was substituted with an injury in the last game and missed training on Monday. Although the left-back is in the squad, his use in the starting eleven must be questioned. Finn Porath could take his turn as his replacement.

Strategy and team spirit

Looking ahead to the upcoming game, Muslic warns against underestimating Darmstadt. “It will be an intense, balanced game,” said the coach. The Darmstadt team defeated VfB Lübeck 2-1 in the first round of the cup and will play in their own stadium full of energy and support from their fans. Muslic highlights that the preparation was made easier by a recent duel against Darmstadt, in which Schalke put in a disciplined performance. “We have to remain stable defensively and play intensively,” he warns.

Fan support will be crucial for Schalke in the sold-out away section. “We know that our fans will support us loudly,” said Muslic, referring to the fans’ support. Schalke have already impressed against strong opponents in recent weeks and feel well prepared for the challenge.

A look at the starting eleven

Although the line-up has not yet been finalized, Muslic is already giving an outlook on the possible starting eleven against Darmstadt: Loris Karius will be in goal, and Abdullah Ayhan, Luka Katic and Artur Kurucay are likely to play in defense. The midfield could be strengthened by Max Gantenbein, Sebastian Schallenberg and Azzedine El-Faouzi, while Bachmann, Karaman and Sylla could pose a threat in attack.

It remains to be seen how Schalke will fare without some of their regular players. Muslic and his team are determined to make a good impression in the DFB Cup in this movement and to maintain a positive atmosphere in the region before the league continues against Karlsruher SC on November 1st. “We are ready for the challenge,” concludes the coach.

For further information on this exciting game and the latest developments, a visit to FC Schalke 04 is essential: Ruhr24 reports and Schalke 04 offers a preview of the upcoming duel.