Schalke 04 are top of Group B, no thanks to their form at the Veltins-Arena. Having beaten Olympiacos in Greece and Arsenal at the Emirates, the Germans have gotten the most difficult fixtures out of the the way with maximum points, which is what makes the two home draws all the more galling. Had they been less inclined to drop points in front of their own supporters, they'd have already locked up qualification. Instead, they're within striking distance of their visitors.
Schalke vs. Olympiakos 2012: Preview and TV schedule
Two wins against Montpellier have left Olympiacos with a shot of overhauling both Arsenal and Schalke, but they’ll need a strong result here in order to have much of a chance. A draw (combined with the expected Arsenal victory against Montpellier) would leave them two points out of second place with one game to play, and their final matchis at home against the Gunners, not something they’ll want to rely on.
Schalke need a win here in order to keep their one-point cushion on Arsene Wenger’s side intact. Despite their indifferent home form, you should probably expect them to get it -- the last time these two sides met was a pretty straightforward win for the Bundesliga team.
Schalke 04 injuries and suspensions
Out: Ibrahim Afellay (thigh), Christoph Metzelder (groin). Doubtful: Atsuto Uchida (thigh).
Olympiacos injuries and suspensions
Out: N/A. Doubtful: N/A
It’ll be interesting to see whether or not Atsuto Uchida makes his way back into the side for Schalke, who’ve clearly been missing the right back during his absence with a thigh injury. There are no real worried for the visitors, who’ve been resting players in anticipation of this match for some time.
Date/Time: Wednesday, Nov. 21. 8:45 p.m. local; 2:45 p.m. EST.
Venue: Veltins-Arena, Gelsenkirchen, Germany.
TV information: ZDF (Germany), NET Greece (Greece).
Watch online: Fox Soccer 2 Go (USA).
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