Strikers Look Strong in Narrow Defeat to Schalke 04
January 10, 2016 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Fort Lauderdale Strikers News Release
Orlando - Despite a strong showing, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers were bested by German powerhouse FC Schalke 04 by a score of 2-0 in the clubs first match in the 2016 Florida Cup.
It was a difficult first test for the Strikers, who started preseason training just six days ago. Schalke utilized a full-strength side, with regulars Franco Di Santo and Leroy Sané providing the goals.
"I am happy with our performance," said Strikers Head Coach and General Manager Caio Zanardi. "We played a very tough match against a tough opponent in Schalke. We were disciplined and organized. It was a good team effort and a strong showing from the players."
Schalke maintained the majority of possession early on while the Strikers, set up in a 4-3-3 formation, were more than content to defend and counter attack. Maicon Santos looked strong holding the ball up top while flanked by the tricky pair of PC and Geison Moura.
After a period of sustained pressure, the German heavyweights finally got the breakthrough through Di Santo. The Argentine forward keeping his calm in front of goal to finish past Bruno following a scramble in the box.
Schalke introduced nine players at halftime, including new signings Younes Belhanda and Alessandro Schöpf. Zanardi stuck with the same 11 players from the first half to start the second period of action.
Fort Lauderdale opened the second half strong and was inches away from equalizing five minutes after the restart when a Santos effort from distance cannoned off the post.
Sané tapped in from close range at the other end to double Schalke's lead in the 57th minute.
Adrianinho, who replaced Kleberson shortly before the hour mark, looked lively in his cameo. The attacking midfielder created one of the best chances of the night with a set piece on the head of Julius James that required a stunning save from Schalke keeper Michael Gspurning to keep out.
Schalke travels to Fort Lauderdale next for their match against Brazilian side Atletico Mineiro on Wednesday, January 13. The Strikers next test is against Independiente Santa Fe on Sunday the 17th. The Colombian side is coming off a 1-0 defeat to Bayer 04 Leverkusen in their opening match.
North American Soccer League Stories from January 10, 2016
- Strikers Look Strong in Narrow Defeat to Schalke 04 - Fort Lauderdale Strikers
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