In a significant match that carried implications for the promotion race, Schalke 04 secured its first victory of the new year, defeating Holstein Kiel 2-1. With goals from Kenan Karaman and Hasan Kurucay, Schalke took an early lead, establishing their authority in the match. Kiel's attempts to level the score faced a setback when a goal from Phil Harris was disallowed by the referee due to a foul, which was a fortunate decision for Schalke, maintaining their lead going into the second half.

Despite a strong push from Kiel in the second half, where they eventually managed to score through a penalty by David Zec, Schalke held on to their slender advantage. This win not only rejuvenates Schalke's campaign for promotion back to the Bundesliga but also intensifies the pressure on relegation-threatened Kiel. The victory marks a critical juncture in Schalke’s season, demonstrating resilience and an ability to perform under pressure, particularly with key player Edin Dzeko returning to the starting lineup.

The match signifies a shift in momentum for Schalke, who struggled at the beginning of the year but now find themselves in a solid position at the top of the league. Meanwhile, the loss puts Kiel in a precarious spot, closer to the relegation zone as they continue to face challenges in their campaign. Schalke's trajectory in the Second Bundesliga is crucial not just for their aspirations but for the overall competitive landscape of the league, as the struggles of traditional clubs like Kiel highlight the intense nature of the battle for survival and promotion.