Schalke 04 produced a clinical away performance to beat Union Berlin 3-1 on Matchday 3 of the Bundesliga, picking up a vital three points despite Union goalkeeper Loris Karius doing everything in his power to keep the hosts in the contest. Karius finished the match with an impressive seven saves, yet it was not enough to prevent Schalke from leaving the Alte Försterei with all three points.

From early on, Schalke showed intent going forward with Kenan Karaman orchestrating much of their attacking play. The forward delivered five key passes throughout the 90 minutes, consistently unlocking Union's defensive lines and creating dangerous opportunities for his teammates. His vision and composure on the ball proved the difference in the final third, and Union's backline struggled to contain his movement and distribution.

At the other end, Union Berlin found it nearly impossible to break through a resilient Schalke rearguard. Centre-back Nikola Katic was a towering presence, racking up a remarkable 28 clearances — a figure that underlined both his dominance in the air and Union's desperation to find a way back into the match. He was ably supported by Timo Becker, who contributed 15 clearances of his own, while Felix Uduokhai added another 10. Together, the defensive trio formed a near-impenetrable barrier that snuffed out wave after wave of Union attacks.

Karius's seven-save display gave Union Berlin hope at various stages. The former Liverpool goalkeeper was sharp off his line and alert to shots from distance, but the sheer volume of Schalke's chances eventually told. When Union did pull a goal back to make it 1-3, the hosts pushed hard for more, but Katic, Becker, and Uduokhai ensured there would be no dramatic comeback.

The result leaves Schalke 04 with renewed confidence heading into the next fixtures, while Union Berlin will need to regroup quickly. For Union Berlin FC, the defensive issues exposed in this match will concern trainer and staff alike, particularly their inability to cope with Karaman's creativity. The schedule offers little respite for either side as the Bundesliga season intensifies, but on this evidence, Schalke look well-equipped to compete at the highest level this campaign.