Valencia controlled the first 45 minutes at the Estadio Mestalla, and as a reward, the home side has a 1-0 lead over visiting Schalke. The match’s goal came int he 17th minute, with Jeremy Mathieu providing for Roberto Soldado, a near post cross from the left that was redirected past Manuel Neuer.
UEFA Champions League, Valencia Vs. Schalke: Roberto Soldado Goal Sends Los Che Into Half Up 1-0
Schalke’s best chance came early in the half when a ball played back into the Valencia area after a corner kick was headed down for Klaas-Jan Huntelaar. The Dutch striker had an uncontested shot that he scuffed, the mishit half-volley failing to test Vicente Guaita. Schalke came close to an equalizer mid-way through the half when Peer Kluge nearly headed a corner kick over Guaita only to see the understudy keeper palm the ball against the bar.
Valencia put five shots on goal in the half compared to Schalke’s two. Valencia’s also held 63 percent of possession, a fair indication of the type of half it’s been. Schalke’s remained compact, waiting to challenge until Valencia brings the ball into their half. Unfortunately for Schalke, Valencia has had success getting into attack, seemingly figuring out Schalke after eight minutes.
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