Heidenheim’s Meteoric Rise: Can They Sustain Their Bundesliga Success Against Dortmund?
Heidenheim an der Brenz, a quaint town nestled in southern Germany, has never been on the radar of football aficionados. It’s not that the town lacks charm; rather, its remote location makes it difficult to reach via public transportation. Yet, this small town has recently captured the imagination of football fans and pundits alike. The reason? Heidenheim’s unprecedented ascent to the Bundesliga, Germany’s top football league, in 2023. Their home ground, the Voith-Arena, with a modest capacity of 15,000, has become a fortress, making tickets to their games a hot commodity. The team, affectionately dubbed ‘the unshakables,’ has defied all expectations by qualifying for European competitions in their debut Bundesliga season. This remarkable achievement has catapulted them into the UEFA Conference League, where they have already triumphed over Swedish opposition. Now, as they brace themselves for even more formidable adversaries like Chelsea, the question on everyone’s mind is whether Heidenheim can sustain this momentum.
To fully appreciate Heidenheim’s rise, one must delve into their history. Until 2009, the team was a relatively obscure entity, languishing in the lower tiers of German football. Their journey to the top has not been fueled by lavish financial injections but rather by a steadfast focus on continuity and persistence. This ethos is epitomized by their long-serving coach, Frank Schmidt, who has been at the helm since 2007. A native of Heidenheim, Schmidt embodies the spirit of the region. His vision extends beyond football; he even plans to open a tapas bar in the town someday. Under his stewardship, the team has prioritized local talent, with a roster predominantly composed of German players and a smattering of Austrians. This approach minimizes the cultural and environmental adjustments that often plague international recruits. Operating on a shoestring budget, Heidenheim has eschewed the allure of international scouting, opting instead to focus on the local market.
Their frugality has not hampered their ability to make shrewd acquisitions. Despite losing key players from the previous season, Heidenheim has bolstered their squad with strategic signings. The return of midfielder Niklas Dorsch, four years after his departure, is seen as a significant coup. Additionally, the loan acquisition of 18-year-old Paul Wanner from Bayern Munich has added a creative spark to their midfield. Wanner has already made a substantial impact, emerging as a standout playmaker. Their unbeaten record in five games this season has surprised many, especially given the challenging nature of their fixtures. However, their upcoming clash against Borussia Dortmund, last season’s Champions League runners-up, will be the ultimate litmus test of their credentials. Known for their high-energy playing style, Heidenheim consistently tops the distance-covered statistics in the Bundesliga, a testament to their work ethic and determination.
The impending showdown against Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park is not just another game; it’s a defining moment for Heidenheim. This will be their third league game of the season, and they have already turned heads by winning all five of their competitive fixtures thus far. Dortmund, currently fourth in the league with four points from two rounds, will be eager to secure their second victory of the campaign. Their season opener saw them dispatch Eintracht Frankfurt with a 2-0 win, although a lackluster draw against Werder Bremen has left them with something to prove. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN+ in the United States, and those abroad may need to use a VPN to access their usual streaming services. Kick-off is scheduled for 2:30pm ET/11:30am PT on Friday, September 13. The stage is set for an exhilarating encounter.
Dortmund’s lineup may see some notable absences due to injuries and suspensions. Filippo Mane could feature in central defense, while Donyell Malen might take on a wing-back role. Giovanni Reyna and Kjell Watjen are sidelined due to injuries, and there are fitness concerns over Serhou Guirassy and Yan Couto. Heidenheim, too, will be without key players Julian Niehues, Lennard Maloney, and Thomas Leon Keller. In Maloney’s absence, Luca Kerber may step into the midfield alongside Jan Schoppner. Nico Schlotterbeck’s suspension adds another layer of complexity to Dortmund’s defensive setup. Despite these challenges, Dortmund’s potential starting XI remains formidable, featuring talents like Kobel, Anton, Sule, Ryerson, Can, Gross, Sabitzer, Brandt, and Bynoe-Gittens. Heidenheim’s probable lineup includes Muller, Traore, Manika, Gimber, Fohrenbach, Kerber, Schoppner, Beck, Wanner, Scienza, and Pieringer.
The tactical battle between the two teams promises to be fascinating. Under previous manager Edin Terzic, Dortmund had the deepest defensive line in the Bundesliga. However, new boss Nuri Sahin has implemented a more aggressive, front-footed approach. This tactical shift has paid dividends, with Dortmund conceding the joint least xG (expected goals) so far this season, a marked improvement from their previous campaign. Before their current unbeaten run, Dortmund had experienced a mixed bag of results, losing three, drawing one, and winning two of their last five league matches. Their home form, however, has been stellar, with three consecutive league wins by a combined score of 11-1. Heidenheim, on the other hand, has defied statistical norms. Despite having just 36% possession in their last match, they managed to create four big chances while conceding none. This efficiency has been a hallmark of their play this season.
Heidenheim’s European exploits add another layer of intrigue to their story. This is the first time they have qualified for the initial phase of a European competition, a testament to their rapid ascent. Currently sitting atop the Bundesliga, Heidenheim has achieved this feat despite having the 16th lowest possession and touches in the opposition box. Their pragmatic approach has yielded impressive results, with the team winning their last 11 matches, including friendlies, and four of their last six Bundesliga games. They are also unbeaten in their last five away league matches, losing just once in their last 11 top-flight away games. These statistics underscore their resilience and ability to punch above their weight.
The upcoming match against Dortmund will be a stern test of Heidenheim’s mettle. Dortmund may start with Filippo Mane in central defense and deploy Donyell Malen as a wing-back. Injuries to key players like Giovanni Reyna, Kjell Watjen, and potentially Serhou Guirassy and Yan Couto could affect their lineup. Heidenheim will also have to cope without Julian Niehues, Lennard Maloney, and Thomas Leon Keller. Luca Kerber is expected to replace Maloney in the midfield, partnering with Jan Schoppner. Despite these challenges, both teams have enough depth to field competitive lineups. Heidenheim’s strong start to the season has included physically demanding European games, adding to the complexity of their fixture list.
The narrative of Heidenheim’s rise is reminiscent of Union Berlin’s success story, albeit more impressive given their smaller budget. Frank Schmidt, who has been with the team for 16 years, has orchestrated this remarkable journey from the German fifth tier to the Bundesliga. Their qualification for the Europa Conference League, achieved by defeating Swedish side BK Häcken, mirrors Union Berlin’s European exploits. Currently leading the Bundesliga after victories against St. Pauli and Augsburg, Heidenheim’s next challenge against Dortmund will be their toughest yet. Dortmund, still smarting from a lackluster display against Bremen, cannot afford to underestimate their opponents.
Heidenheim’s squad has undergone significant changes over the summer. They lost two of their best players but have made astute signings, including the acquisition of Paul Wanner on loan from Bayern Munich. The 18-year-old midfielder has hit the ground running, contributing two goals and one assist in two league matches and scoring in their Pokal win. Wanner’s hard-working ethos and knack for finding dangerous positions make him a key player for Heidenheim. Despite injuries and suspensions, Dortmund has enough quality to field a competitive lineup. Karim Adeyemi, in particular, has been in scintillating form, netting five goals in two U21 matches for Germany, making a strong case for his inclusion in the starting XI.
As the match day approaches, the anticipation builds. Heidenheim’s defense, which has yet to concede a goal in the league this year, will face its sternest test at the Westfalenstadion. The stadium’s intimidating atmosphere will add to the challenge, but Heidenheim’s resilience and tactical acumen should not be underestimated. Schmidt’s coaching prowess has been nothing short of miraculous, and Heidenheim’s success is a testament to his abilities. The team’s high-energy playing style, characterized by relentless pressing and efficient use of possession, has caught many opponents off guard. Their ability to execute their game plan with precision will be crucial against a Dortmund side eager to bounce back.
In conclusion, the clash between Borussia Dortmund and FC Heidenheim is more than just a football match; it’s a narrative of ambition, resilience, and tactical ingenuity. Heidenheim’s journey from obscurity to the pinnacle of German football is a story that resonates with fans and pundits alike. Their pragmatic approach, underpinned by a strong work ethic and astute signings, has yielded impressive results. As they prepare to face Dortmund, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A positive result would not only bolster their credentials but also serve as a testament to their ability to compete at the highest level. Regardless of the outcome, Heidenheim’s story is a compelling chapter in the annals of football history, one that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.