Prediction Darmstadt 98 vs Schalke 04 2025/2026 – Betting Tips for the DFB Pokal on 29/10/2025

Match context and recent form

There is real narrative tension heading into the Merck-Stadion am Böllenfalltor on 29 October. Darmstadt 98 will host Schalke 04 in the second round of the DFB Pokal, and the two sides arrive with sharply contrasting momentum. Schalke have been roaring along in league action — eight wins from their last ten fixtures and an unbeaten run that has produced a string of convincing results. That recent 1-0 league victory over Darmstadt on 24 October reinforced their grip on this matchup and underlined an away side that arrives confident and clinical. Darmstadt, meanwhile, have shown resilience with a mixed sequence: they have picked up important results but also a handful of draws and a narrow loss to the same opponent last week. The cup environment at a compact 17,810-capacity Böllenfalltor will be lively, and referee Felix Bickel will be tasked with keeping the intensity in order as both teams chase progression.

Tactical clues from the numbers

The raw attacking data paints a clear picture: Schalke outshoot and out-attack Darmstadt across the board. They average 26 total shots with 11 on target versus Darmstadt’s 18 and eight on target; their danger-attack numbers and corner averages (90 dangerous attacks and nine corners compared to Darmstadt’s 62 and four) point to a side that builds pressure and creates sustained opportunities. Schalke’s previous-match standout, Soufiane El-Faouzi, carried a highest player rating in that win, and that kind of individual performance often counts heavily in knockout ties. Darmstadt will lean on home familiarity and the compact stadium atmosphere to disrupt Schalke’s rhythm, but the statistical edge in possession of chances and finishing opportunities gives the visitors a real edge in this duel.

Prediction and betting suggestion

Bookmakers have Darmstadt as the marginal favorite with odds around 2.35, a draw at 3.45 and Schalke available near 2.85. Given Schalke’s form, superior attacking metrics and the psychological advantage of having beaten Darmstadt recently, the value sits with an away victory in the 1X2 market. For bettors who track timing and market selection, remember that knowing the right time to place bets on goal markets can be as decisive as reading form cycles, and keeping composure is vital — a reminder found in how to have emotional control when placing bets. My advised play: back Schalke 04 to win (Away) at the quoted price — it offers a combination of upside and rationale grounded in recent head-to-head, shot and chance superiority, and momentum. As always, stake responsibly and consider the cup’s unpredictability: a single moment can flip a knockout tie, but on the data available, Schalke represents the best 1X2 value for this clash.