On Sunday, Borussia Dortmund is set to host Heidenheim at Signal Iduna Park in a crucial Bundesliga clash. Heidenheim, currently struggling at the bottom of the table, seeks to improve their dismal standing against a formidable Dortmund side.
Borussia Dortmund vs Heidenheim: Match Preview
Following a challenging European campaign, Dortmund aims to bounce back after their recent 2-0 loss to Inter Milan in the Champions League. This defeat is part of a troubling trend, with Dortmund losing two of their last three matches, including another 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on January 20. However, the squad did enjoy a strong 3-0 win over Union Berlin, keeping them competitive in the Bundesliga.
Dortmund’s Current Standing
- Position: 2nd in Bundesliga
- Points: 42
- Undefeated in 12 league matches
Dortmund sits second in the Bundesliga, eight points behind the league leaders Bayern Munich. They have consistently performed well at home, winning their last four league matches at Signal Iduna Park while maintaining three clean sheets during this stretch.
Heidenheim’s Plight
In stark contrast, Heidenheim has struggled to find their footing in the league. Having narrowly avoided relegation last season, they are currently in a precarious position, sitting at the bottom of the table with just 13 points. Their recent form has been lackluster, with only two matches without defeat in their last six.
- Recent Losses: 3-0 against RB Leipzig
- Goals Conceded: Most in the Bundesliga
- Goals Scored: Fewest in the Bundesliga
Heidenheim’s recent struggles include consecutive defeats, leaving them five points away from safety. Their away form has been particularly alarming, winning only one of their league matches on the road this season.
Team News
Borussia Dortmund
Dortmund’s squad is relatively fit, with a few exceptions. Centre-back Waldemar Anton is a doubt due to illness. If he cannot play, Dortmund may field a defensive trio of Emre Can, Ramy Bensebaini, and Nico Schlotterbeck. Key players like Jobe Bellingham and Felix Nmecha will likely anchor the midfield.
Heidenheim
Heidenheim faces significant challenges with several players sidelined. Striker Budu Zivzivadze and forward Christian Conteh are both out due to knee injuries. Centre-forward Mikkel Kaufmann is a doubt due to illness. Marvin Pieringer is expected to lead the attack, with support from Arijon Ibrahimovic and Adrian Beck.
Predicted Lineups
| Borussia Dortmund | Heidenheim |
|---|---|
| Kobel | Ramaj |
| Can | Busch |
| Schlotterbeck | Mainka |
| Bensebaini | Siersleben |
| Ryerson | Fohrenbach |
| Bellingham | Schoppner |
| Nmecha | Dorsch |
| Svensson | Ibrahimovic |
| Beier | Beck |
| Brandt | Honsak |
| Guirassy | Pieringer |
Match Prediction
Given Dortmund’s strong home record and Heidenheim’s defensive vulnerabilities, a comfortable victory for Borussia Dortmund is anticipated. A scoreline of 3-0 is a likely outcome, reflecting Dortmund’s offensive prowess and Heidenheim’s ongoing struggles.
