Schalke wins spectacularly: drama in the test match against Bocholt!

Schalke wins spectacularly: drama in the test match against Bocholt!

In an exciting test match on July 6, 2025, 1. FC Bocholt and FC Schalke 04 met in front of 4,999 spectators. The match, which lasted a total of 120 minutes, offered both exciting moments and the chance to test new players. Despite the summer heat on the field, the supporters didn't let their spirits be dampened and cheered on their team passionately.

The game was characterized by numerous twists and turns. Schalke 04 was able to take the lead through Ayman Gulasi in stoppage time in the second quarter (60+2). Peter Remmert added in the 66th minute and increased the score to 2-0 for Gelsenkirchen. But Bocholt didn't give up: Arnold Budimbu converted a penalty to make it 1:2 (83') and Philipp Hanke made it 2:2 (90+5) in stoppage time in the third quarter. However, the celebratory celebration was followed by disillusionment when Ilyas Hamache scored the decisive 3-2 for Schalke with a penalty in the 115th minute.

New away kit and debuts

Another reason for the Schalke fans to be happy was the debut of central defender Nikola Katic, who was on the pitch for the first 30 minutes. Pape Meïssa Ba also showed his skills and narrowly failed with a shot that landed on the post. Coach Miron Muslic expressed satisfaction after the game and emphasized that the friendly was a valuable experience. On July 7th, the team will set off for a training camp in Neustift in the Stubaital, where there will be three more tests against Panathinaikos Athens, SV Wehen Wiesbaden and FC St. Gallen.

For Bocholt, under the leadership of coach Gabriele Di Benedetto, the game was a good opportunity to prove themselves against a traditionally strong opponent. The line-up was characterized by players who were full of ambition, especially when they were finally able to turn the deficit into a draw.

Arminia Bielefeld and SC Wiedenbrück

Another friendly match held on the same day ended in a draw. SC Wiedenbrück and Arminia Bielefeld drew 2-2. Wiedenbrück led through Marlon Lakämper (53') and had the opportunity to take the lead again after a penalty kick from Nikola Aracic (70'). However, Bielefeld's Noah Sarenren Bazee ensured a fair share of the points with his equalizer in stoppage time (90').

These test matches are particularly important to stimulate viewership in the Bundesliga. Meanwhile, statistics show that spectator numbers in stadiums have increased significantly over the years, which speaks to a vibrant football culture. The current viewer numbers show that fans also turn up in large numbers at test matches - such as in Bocholt and Wiedenbrück - and support their club. Those interested can find further information about the development of spectator numbers in the Bundesliga since 1963 Statista.

For 1. FC Bocholt and FC Schalke 04, this day was a mixed experience full of exciting moments. Both teams have shown that they are ready to take on challenges and entertain their fans with exciting football.