Schalke up for tough game against in form Hoffenheim

(GSM) – Schalke 04 are still without points after two matches in the new Bundesliga season but their coach Felix Magath is confident they can put an end to their losing streak against Hoffenheim on Friday.

Schalke has endured a disappointing start of the season with two losses against Hamburger SV and Hannover 96, despite bringing in several new players including Real Madrid legend Raúl. Magath hopes his squad will live up to their potential against Hoffenheim.

“The new players may not have had time to gel yet, but with a good battling performance we can take something from the game against Hoffenheim,” said Magath on the official Schalke website.

“We need to pick up points following the home defeat against Hannover. Hoffenheim on the other hand now have to confirm their good performances. I don’t think we should attach too much significance to the 4-1 win over Bremen on the opening day. Werder had, after all, been involved in an energy-sapping Champions League qualifier just a few days earlier.

“We’re up against a confident side who like to attack their opponents early. Hoffenheim’s strength lies in moving the ball forward quickly upon winning possession. If we can counter this strategy we’ll get some opportunities of our own.

“I’m expecting a hard fought game. Though it would be nice if we had a win to our name after the final whistle rather than a draw, like after our previous meetings.”