Lukas Schmitz – FC Schalke 04 (24/11/2010)

This is a collector's item of exceptional rarity, stemming from the intensity of European evenings in the early 2010s. This match worn jersey was used by German left-back Lukas Schmitz during the reception of Olympique Lyonnais on November 24, 2010, for the 5th matchday of the Champions League group stage.

Match Context: Hell at the Veltins-Arena for OL

Winners in the first leg at Gerland (1-0), Claude Puel's OL traveled to Gelsenkirchen with the ambition of securing their qualification. But in the incandescent atmosphere of the Veltins-Arena, facing a formidable German armada, the Lyonnais would experience a true nightmare evening.

Schalke 04 immediately stifled their opponent. In the 13th minute, perfectly served by Jefferson Farfán, the legendary Raúl opened the scoring from close range. The Germans quickly hammered home the advantage through the inevitable Klaas-Jan Huntelaar in the 20th minute (2-0). Overwhelmed by the local power and unable to react, Les Gones conceded a third goal at the end of the match, again scored by the prolific Dutch striker Huntelaar (89th minute). Schalke won with total authority (3-0). A show of force that allowed the Germans to take the lead in the group, even though OL would secure their qualification that same evening thanks to the result of the other match.

Lukas Schmitz: A Soldier of the Ruhr at the Heart of a Historic Epic

A rigorous, hardworking defender with excellent tactical discipline, Lukas Schmitz was a valuable element of the system implemented by Felix Magath during this legendary European campaign, which would see the German club achieve the historic feat of reaching the Champions League semi-finals.

Starting on the left flank of the defense, he delivered an impeccable defensive performance against Lyon. Solid in duels and meticulous in his clearances, he completely locked down his wing, expertly neutralizing the Lyonnais attackers. Worn throughout this prestigious clash, this mythical jersey features all the exclusive Champions League game characteristics (official patches and markings) and bears the marks of this great European battle. An absolute collector's item for enthusiasts of Champions League history or followers of the Rhone club.