Schalke 04 Beat Paderborn 2-1 in Dramatic Late Winner

Schalke 04 secured a crucial 2-1 victory over SC Paderborn 07 at the Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen, claiming all three points despite being outplayed for large periods of the German 2. Bundesliga encounter. The home side delivered late drama as they fought back from behind to snatch the win.

Paderborn took a deserved lead in the 38th minute through Laurin Curda's well-taken goal, controlling the tempo and dictating play throughout the first half. Schalke showed resilience to equalize just before halftime when Kenan Karaman found the net in the 48th minute, leveling the score against the run of play.

The visitors dominated possession with 62.2% of the ball compared to Schalke's 37.8%, and their territorial advantage was evident throughout. Paderborn registered 14 shots to Schalke's eight, but the home side proved more clinical with five efforts on target. The statistics suggested Paderborn deserved more from the match, but Schalke capitalized on their opportunities.

The second half continued Paderborn's dominance in possession, though Schalke remained dangerous on the counter-attack. The match became increasingly heated in the closing stages, with yellow cards shown to Kenan Karaman and Laurin Curda in the 83rd minute as tensions rose.

The decisive moment arrived in the 86th minute when substitute Bryan Lasme struck the winner for the hosts, stunning the visitors who had controlled much of the contest. The drama peaked in stoppage time when both Loris Karius and Nick Batzner received bookings in the 98th minute.

Schalke's ability to convert their limited chances proved the difference in a match where they were second-best statistically. The three points will be crucial as both teams continue their campaigns in the 2. Bundesliga season.