Hamburg and Schalke served up an eight-goal thriller in the opening game of the 2023/24 2.Bundesliga season, with the hosts coming out on top 5-3.
The game was an absorbing spectacle from the start, with both teams creating chances. Hamburg took the lead through Robert Glatzel in the 17th minute, but Schalke hit back through Assan Ouedraogo and Thomas Ouwejan before half-time.
The second half was just as entertaining, with Hamburg equalizing through Daniel Bénes before taking the lead through Bénes again and then Glatzel. Schalke pulled one back through Simon Terodde, but Hamburg sealed the win with a late goal from Glatzel.
It was a great way to start the season for Hamburg, who will be hoping to challenge for promotion this year. Schalke will be disappointed with the result, but they will know that they have the quality to bounce back.
Here is a more detailed look at the game:
**First half**
The game started at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to get on the front foot. Hamburg had the better of the early exchanges, and they took the lead in the 17th minute through Robert Glatzel. The striker met a cross from Bakery Jatta with a powerful header that gave Schalke goalkeeper Marius Müller no chance.
Schalke responded well to going behind, and they equalized in the 22nd minute through Assan Ouedraogo. The 17-year-old debutant showed great composure to finish past Daniel Heuer Fernandes after being played in by Simone Terodde.
The game continued to be end-to-end, and Schalke took the lead in the 45th minute through Thomas Ouwejan. The Dutchman curled a beautiful free-kick into the low corner, giving Heuer Fernandes no chance.
**Second half**
Schalke were rejoicing as they scored their third goal in under two minutes, only to have their celebrations cut short. Terodde managed to find the back of the net with a brilliant finish from a Tobias Mohr cross, but unfortunately, he was narrowly offside.
Hamburg's relentless pursuit of an equalizer paid off as they were awarded a penalty when Ibrahima Cissé fouled Glatzel in the box. Laszlo Benes confidently stepped up and skillfully sent Müller the wrong way, restoring the balance of the game (56').
In a matter of minutes, the Slovakian player displayed his skills once again. Executing a swift counter-attack by HSV, he expertly lifted a shot over Müller and found the back of the net (60’). This remarkable goal showcased both his agility and precision on the field.
This thrilling game kept everyone entertained as Schalke, led by their captain Terodde, made a stunning comeback and found the much-needed equalizer. It was a moment of pure excitement with fans on the edge of their seats. With pinpoint accuracy, he effortlessly redirected the ball into the net past Heuer Fernandes. The seamless pass delivered to him by Ron Schallenberg set up this incredible goal at the 66th-minute mark.
Shortly after, the Royal Blues faced another setback when Ibrahima Cissé received his second yellow card for a foul on Levin Öztunali (71'). This unfortunate turn of events left the team in a challenging situation.
Seizing the opportunity of having an extra player on the field, Tim Walter's team demonstrated their determination to secure a late victory and succeeded in doing so. With just nine minutes remaining, Muro Muheim unleashed a powerful shot that narrowly missed its mark, colliding with the post in a moment of breathtaking intensity. This near miss serves as a testament to his skill and left spectators on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating what would happen next. Schalke fans on the other hand were gripping tight onto anything they could get a hold of hoping to hear the final whistle.
Müller showcased his incredible skills by making a remarkable fingertip save to thwart Glatzel's goal-scoring attempt in the 87th minute. His ninth of the match. His quick reflexes and precise execution left Glatzel and the opposing team frustrated at their missed opportunity.
Henning Matriciani exhibited impressive defensive skills by skillfully blocking Jonas Meffert's attempt, preventing it from reaching its target and resulting in a corner kick. This remarkable display of athleticism showcases his dedication to maintaining a solid defense until the very end of the game.
Schalke created an exhilarating moment towards the end of the match when Bryan Lasme skillfully maneuvered past a defender and broke through the defense. However, despite his efforts, he, unfortunately, struck his shot straight at Heuer Fernandes in goal (85’).
HSV's winning goal materialized just moments into injury time, leaving fans in awe. Glatzel skillfully seized a deflected pass from Ignace van der Brempt, effortlessly evaded Müller's defense, and unleashed an unstoppable strike that sent the ball crashing into the net. It was a spectacular display of talent and precision that sealed their victory.
In the thrilling last moments of the game, Müller bravely ventured forward for a critical free-kick opportunity. However, it was Jean-Luc Dompé's lightning-fast counterattack that proved to be deadly, securing a valuable victory for the home team with an impressive goal in the final minute of stoppage time (90+9').
The final whistle blew shortly afterwards, and Hamburg had won a thrilling game 5-3.
**Key takeaways**
* Robert Glatzel was in inspired form for Hamburg, scoring two goals and setting up another.
* Daniel Bénes was also excellent for Hamburg, scoring two goals and creating several chances.
* Assan Ouedraogo made a bright debut for Schalke, scoring his first goal for the club.
* Simon Terodde scored his first goal of the season for Schalke, but it wasn't enough to prevent them from losing.
* Marius Müller was brilliant in his debut making nine saves and easily was the man of the match.
**Additional thoughts**
* The referee had a difficult afternoon, making several controversial decisions.
* The crowd at the Volksparkstadion was excellent, creating a great atmosphere. Not to mention the great travelling Nordkurve.
* The game was full of attacking intent, with both teams creating chances.
* The result is a blow to Schalke's season start, but they will be confident of bouncing back.
**Conclusion**
It was a thrilling game of football that will be remembered for its goals, excitement, and drama. It was a great way to start the new season, and it will be interesting to see how Schalke fares the rest of the campaign.
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