Bundesliga Showdown: Heidenheim Host RB Leipzig in Relegation Battle vs. European Pursuit
Matchday 19 of the Bundesliga sees struggling Heidenheim face European hopefuls RB Leipzig at the Voith-Arena. This encounter is crucial for both sides, with Heidenheim desperate for points to escape the relegation zone, while Leipzig aims to solidify their European qualification spot. Despite recent inconsistent form, Leipzig's squad depth and historical advantage make them the favorites.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
This Bundesliga Matchday 19 fixture holds significant importance for both teams. Heidenheim currently sits in 16th place with 13 points from 18 matches, occupying the relegation playoff spot and battling desperately to avoid dropping to the 2. Bundesliga. They are in dire need of every point to escape the immediate threat of relegation. In contrast, visiting RB Leipzig is positioned 5th with 32 points from 17 matches, actively pursuing European qualification, particularly a Champions League spot. They are currently seven points behind second-placed Borussia Dortmund and still have aspirations for a higher league finish.
Recent Form
Heidenheim has been struggling significantly in their last five official matches, recording two draws and three losses. Their recent league results include a 1-1 draw against VfL Wolfsburg, a 1-2 loss to Mainz 05, a 2-2 draw with FC Köln, a 0-4 defeat against Bayern Munich, and a 1-2 loss to FC St. Pauli. RB Leipzig's recent form has also been inconsistent, with two wins and three losses in their last five outings. Their most recent match saw them suffer a heavy 1-5 defeat to Bayern Munich, following a 2-0 victory over SC Freiburg, a 1-3 loss to Bayer Leverkusen, a 1-3 loss to Union Berlin, and a dominant 6-0 win against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Key Players & Injury News
For Heidenheim, striker Stefan Schimmer will be a key player in attack, leading the team in goals scored, while captain Patrick Mainka anchors the defense. On the injury front, Heidenheim will be without several players: Jonas Föhrenbach (thigh injury, expected back mid-February 2026), B. Zivzivadze (knee injury, expected back late January 2026), and L. Paqarada (cruciate ligament injury, out until late May 2026). For RB Leipzig, Christoph Baumgartner is a central figure in their attack, leading the team in both goals and assists. Yan Diomande and Loïs Openda also pose significant offensive threats, with David Raum being crucial for chance creation. Willi Orbán is a vital presence in their defense. Leipzig faces a more extensive injury list: key defender Castello Lukeba is out for this match due to a knee capsule injury. Rising star Assan Ouédraogo is sidelined until at least March with a knee tendon injury. Additionally, Johan Bakayoko (calf injury), Viggo Gebel (cruciate ligament), and Benjamin Henrichs (Achilles tendon) are unavailable. Goalkeeper Péter Gulácsi is expected back in late February, and Lukas Klostermann is recovering from the flu.