Schalke 04 vs Real Madrid CF

Schalke and Real Madrid close out preseason on 16 August in a friendly marking the Veltins-Arena's 25th anniversary. It's a fitting farewell for Schalke before their Bundesliga return after three years away, having just won the 2. Bundesliga title, while Real Madrid enter a new era under returning boss Jose Mourinho after a trophyless 2025/26. Schalke's promotion charge leaned on Kenan Karaman, who scored 14 league goals, alongside Moussa Sylla and Finn Porath. Real Madrid are still finding their rhythm this preseason, drawing 2-2 with Fiorentina as new signings Marc Cucurella, Bernardo Silva and Ibrahima Konate blend in alongside stars like Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe. History favors the visitors: the sides have met four times, all in the Champions League, with Real Madrid winning every one, including a 9-2 aggregate rout in 2013/14. Expect Real Madrid's quality to tell against a spirited Schalke side enjoying its big night at home. Our prediction: 1-3