A Historic Victory

The 1996-97 UEFA Cup: Schalke 04's Moment of Glory

A Historic Victory

The 1996-97 UEFA Cup, the 26th edition of the tournament, witnessed a remarkable triumph by FC Schalke 04. The German club etched its name in the annals of European football, following in the footsteps of FC Bayern Munich, which had won the competition in the previous year.

The Road to the Final

The competition featured a total of 128 teams from across Europe, vying for the coveted trophy. Schalke 04 embarked on an impressive journey that saw them overcome formidable opponents, including Valencia CF, Trabzonspor, Club Brugge, and TSG Hoffenheim.

A Memorable Final

The final match of the UEFA Cup took place on May 21, 1997, at the Parkstadion in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. Schalke 04 faced Inter Milan, a formidable Italian side. The match was a thrilling affair, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess.

Schalke 04 took the lead in the 66th minute through a goal from Marc Wilmots. However, Inter Milan equalized just four minutes later. The match remained locked at 1-1 at the end of regulation time, forcing the game into extra time.

In extra time, Schalke 04 seized the initiative and scored two goals in quick succession. Wilmots netted his second of the match in the 102nd minute, and Olaf Thon sealed the victory with a goal in the 112th minute.

Schalke 04's Legacy

Schalke 04's victory in the 1996-97 UEFA Cup was a historic moment for the club and German football. It marked the first time a German team had won the competition since Eintracht Frankfurt in 1980.

The triumph also marked a significant milestone in the career of Marc Wilmots, who played a pivotal role in Schalke 04's success. Wilmots' impressive performances in the tournament earned him widespread recognition and established him as one of Europe's top midfielders.

The 1996-97 UEFA Cup victory remains a cherished memory for Schalke 04 fans and a testament to the club's rich history and unwavering spirit.