Bayer Leverkusen to Tackle Struggling Heidenheim in Bundesliga Clash

Heidenheim’s Ongoing Struggles

Heidenheim faces Bayer Leverkusen this Saturday at the Voith Arena, continuing their battle against relegation. Currently sitting at the bottom of the Bundesliga with only 14 points, they are ten points adrift of safety in 16th place, occupied by St. Pauli. Frank Schmidt’s team has not tasted victory since December of the previous year, when they triumphed over Freiburg with a scoreline of 2-1. Recently, a 1-0 loss to Eintracht Frankfurt has further compounded their struggles.

Team News for Heidenheim

Coach Frank Schmidt will be without Tim Siersleben due to health issues. Patrick Mainka is expected to step in for him, while Budu Zivzivadze may be given the chance to lead the attack.

Bayer Leverkusen’s Focus Shifts to Bundesliga

Bayer Leverkusen arrives at this fixture after a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal in the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16. Despite the outcome, coach Kasper Hjulmand was pleased with their overall performance throughout the two legs. With their European campaign now concluded, Leverkusen can turn their attention entirely to the Bundesliga, aiming for a top-four finish.

Leverkusen’s Standings and Recent Matches

Currently positioned five points behind 4th place Stuttgart, Leverkusen has eight matches remaining to close that gap and secure Champions League qualification for next season. Their previous two Bundesliga fixtures ended in draws against Freiburg and Bayern Munich. Following Stuttgart’s win over RB Leipzig, Leverkusen’s chances of leapfrogging into a Champions League spot could improve, provided favorable results occur this matchday.

Leverkusen’s Injury Updates

Loïc Badé remains sidelined with a thigh injury, missing this vital encounter. Tim Oermann could fill in on defense along with Robert Andrich and Jarell Quansah, while Edmond Tapsoba is unavailable due to suspension.

Projected Lineups

Heidenheim:
Ramaj – Busch, P. Mainka, Gimber, Behrens – Schöppner, Dorsch – Kerber – Dinkçi, C. Conteh – Zivzivadze.

Bayer Leverkusen:
Flekken – Quansah, Andrich, Oermann, Grimaldo – E. Fernández, Aleix García – Maza, Poku – Terrier, Schick.