The Royal Blues snatched a 1-0 away victory over Mohamed Zidan's Hamburg, who were left without a win in their last six games.

Germany striker Kevin Kuranyi scored the winner for Schalke as early as the second minute.

Egyptian forward Zidan started on the bench but was introduced instead of Croatian striker Ivica Olic 11 minutes from time.

Bremen needed a late strike from Boubacar Sanogo to salvage a 3-3 away draw with Karlsruhe.

The Ivorian striker latched onto Diego's pass to slot at the far post with four minutes remaining.

Bremen are second in the Bundesliga table with 54 points, ahead of third-placed Schalke on goal difference.

Both teams trail leaders Bayern Munich by nine points. The Bavarian giants can extend their advantage if they beat title holders Stuttgart on Sunday.