Christian Schulz – Werder Bremen (08/03/2005)

Here is an exceptionally rare collector's item from the European golden age of the 2000s. This match issued shirt (prepared for the match) was allocated to the solid German international defender Christian Schulz during the Champions League round of 16 second leg between Olympique Lyonnais and Werder Bremen, on March 8, 2005, at the Gerland stadium.

Match Context: The Lyon Hurricane Sweeps Away the German Champions

After a masterful display in the first leg in Germany (0-3), Paul Le Guen's Lyon hosted Werder Bremen with absolute confidence. But no one could have predicted the historic evening that was about to unfold at Gerland. This second leg turned into a veritable offensive recital and a show of strength that remains etched in the annals of the Champions League.

Carried by a hat-trick from a red-hot Sylvain Wiltord (8th, 54th, 64th), a brace from Michael Essien (17th, 30th), a cool-headed finish from Florent Malouda (60th), and a late penalty from Jérémy Berthod (80th), OL humiliated the reigning German champions. Despite two consolation goals from Micoud (32nd) and Ismaël (57th), Bremen was completely overwhelmed. Lyon won by the improbable and surreal score of 7-2 (an aggregate score of 10-2 over both matches) and sent a terrifying signal to all of Europe.

Christian Schulz: In the Gerland Storm

A product of the Bremen youth academy and a versatile player capable of playing in central defense or on the left flank, Christian Schulz was one of German football's great hopes at the time.

For this perilous trip between the Rhône and Saône, the young defender was placed on the substitutes' bench by Thomas Schaaf. Remaining on the sidelines, he helplessly witnessed his team's collective downfall against the Rhône tide. Meticulously prepared by the German club's equipment manager for the Gerland dressing room, this jersey bears the exclusive game details and official patches of the most prestigious competition. An ultimate collector's item that immortalizes one of the most legendary matches in the modern history of Olympique Lyonnais.