Schalke 04 have already clinched the 2. Bundesliga title and automatic promotion to the Bundesliga following their strong run through the 2025/26 campaign. The remaining automatic promotion spot and promotion play-off berth now hinge on a tightly contested final matchday involving SV Elversberg, Hannover 96, and SC Paderborn, all level on 59 points but separated by goal difference. Elversberg hold the clearest path with a superior +22 goal difference and a home fixture against Preußen Münster, while Hannover and Paderborn face tougher road tests that could swing the standings. Recent form, including unbeaten streaks and key results against top sides, has kept these three clubs in contention, with the final outcomes set to determine which side joins Schalke in the top flight.