Schalke 0-3 Real Madrid in pre-season friendly at VELTINS-Arena

On 2026-08-16 Real Madrid, led by Jose Mourinho, defeated FC Schalke 04 3-0 at the VELTINS-Arena in a pre-season friendly, with Kylian Mbappe making his first appearance since his FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.

With most senior players back in the squad, Real Madrid largely controlled possession and limited Schalke’s opportunities; the hosts lacked intensity and failed to find a way to score. Schalke’s defence was repeatedly under pressure from Real’s attack and were described as being on the edge during the contest.

Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring after an early defensive error from Schalke, finding the net within six minutes. The second goal arrived from a corner in the 20th minute when Dean Huijsen struck a header, assisted by a delivery from Arda Guler. Carlos Espi completed the scoring with a header in the 57th minute to make it 3-0.

Real Madrid established the tempo from the outset, scoring two goals inside 20 minutes; their rapid pressing and combination play caused problems for Schalke’s high defensive line early on. The Jose Mourinho-led side controlled the game’s rhythm and limited clear chances for the Bundesliga club.

Defensively, the pairing of Dean Huijsen and Ibrahima Konate were singled out for strong showings in the backline and did not allow any ball past them during the match. The report noted Real had struggled with backline performances over the past two seasons but suggested defensive stability appeared improved in this fixture.

Arda Guler continued to impress in midfield and the final third, producing the delivery that led to Huijsen’s header; the article described him as currently the most valuable attacking midfielder in the world. The piece also stated Guler will play an important role under Jose Mourinho in the upcoming season.

The victory preserved Real Madrid’s undefeated pre-season run and was recorded as their fifth club friendly ahead of the new season and their fourth win.