TSG Hoffenheim came from behind to draw 1-1 with nine-man Schalke 04 on Sunday to ensure the surprise newcomers spend the six-week winter break at the top of the Bundesliga, dpa reported.
Selim Teber's curling free kick in the 72nd minute cancelled out Schalke's lucky lead in the 40th from Gerald Asamoah. The visitors had Jermaine Jones and Orlando Engelaar sent off in the 57th and 80th minute, respectively, for second bookable offences.
Hoffenheim sit above champions Bayern Munich, who drew 2-2 at VfB Stuttgart on Saturday, due to a superior goal difference of four, with both teams locked on 35 points. Schalke are seventh with 27 points.
The Bundesliga resumes on January 30 when SV Hamburg host Bayern Munich.