It took them almost 90 minutes, but Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting was on hand to earn Schalke three pints against a stubborn APOEL side.
Strong start for Schalke
Schalke were unfortunate not to be ahead with the opening attack of the match. Max Meyer put in a wonderful corner, which fell perfectly for Joel Matip to glance a header at goal. The Cameroon centre-half connected brilliantly but a terrific stop from Boy Waterman meant that he was denied an early opener.
The Royal Blues continued to pile on the pressure with countless set-pieces early on, although the next chance fell from open play and to Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting. Matip's club and country team-mate was, however, well off target from the edge of the area.
Both sides trade chances
APOEL, who had donned a kit not too dissimilar to Schalke's Bundesliga opponent, TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, from a few years ago, eventually began to show some of the attacking qualities of the Sinsheim side. Thomás De Vincenti headed just past the post before he was afforded an even better opportunity moments later. A great cross from Pieros Sotiriou after a lightning quick break nearly found De Vincenti, though it was mere inches too far in front of him.
That was only momentary respite, as Schalke continued to pole men forward in search of an opener. Leroy Sané was finally starting to get on the ball and two cut-backs nearly provided the first goal of the game. Waterman was forced into several saves as he continued to thwart any shots that came his way. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar was unlucky not to have notched up his 50th European goal, only to see his volleyed effort slide wide as the half-time whistle went.
Choupo-Moting wins it at the death
It was a similar story after the break, but the Veltins-Arena was continually frustrated by their stubborn visitors. They continued to move forward at will and with APOEL happy to absorb the pressure, Schalke's defence were able to push up and lend a hand in attack. However, despite this, it still proved a struggle to find a breakthrough and get past the stubborn Waterman.
Schalke would eventually get there goal, but they had to wait until the 86th minute to relieve the pressure. Choupo-Moting was able to steal in after a scramble in the box poking the ball in from close range past the helpless Dutch stopper. Waterman would make another crucial intervention, as he stopped Dennis Aogo's penalty. Unfortunately for him, he didn't get the sipport he needed from his attackers.