Match Report: SV Meppen 4–0 FC Schalke 04 Youth
International Club Friendly | July 25, 2026 | 21:00 local time

SV Meppen delivered a commanding performance in their pre-season friendly against FC Schalke 04 Youth, cruising to a 4–0 victory at the Hänsch-Arena in Meppen. The home side dominated from start to finish, showcasing a sharp attacking edge and defensive solidity that bodes well for the upcoming Regionalliga Nord campaign.

First‑Half Dominance

Meppen wasted no time imposing themselves. Inside the opening quarter of an hour, a well‑worked corner found the head of central defender Luca Stellwagen, who powered the ball past the Schalke youth goalkeeper. The early goal set the tone, and the hosts continued to press high, forcing errors from the young Schalke backline.

By the half‑hour mark, Meppen doubled their lead. A swift counter‑attack saw winger Markus Ballmert race down the right flank, cut inside, and slot a low finish into the far corner. The Schalke youngsters struggled to cope with the physicality and pace of the experienced Meppen side.

Second‑Half Control

The second half followed a similar pattern. Meppen manager Luca Knipping made several changes, but the team’s intensity never dropped. In the 58th minute, substitute striker Willi Evseev latched onto a through ball, rounded the goalkeeper, and made it 3–0.

Schalke 04’s youth side, a mix of U19 and U23 talents, had few clear chances. Their best opportunity came from a long‑range effort by Emre Can Karademir, but Meppen’s goalkeeper Matthis Harsman was equal to it, tipping the ball over the bar.

The scoring was completed in the 78th minute when Finn‑Louis Heumann finished off a flowing team move, converting a cross from the left to make it 4–0.

Key Takeaways

• Clinical finishing: Meppen converted four of their nine shots on target, showing sharpness in front of goal.
• Youth test: For Schalke’s academy, this was a valuable learning experience against a seasoned lower‑league side.
• Fitness & cohesion: Meppen’s high‑press and quick transitions suggest they are nearing full match fitness ahead of the season.

The result gives SV Meppen a lift as they continue their pre‑season schedule, while Schalke 04’s youth prospects will look to bounce back in their next friendly fixture.