2. Bundesliga Preview: 1. FC Heidenheim vs. VfL Osnabrück
| Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images |
Heidenheim host Osnabrück in the first 2. Bundesliga game in years for both clubs. Frank Schmidt’s side were relegated from the Bundesliga after a three-year spell that included a memorable Europa Conference League campaign, while Osnabrück won 3. Liga last term.
Apart from those returning to their parent clubs after the end of loan deals, Heidenheim managed to keep most players from last season as they have only completed four new signings so far in the summer transfer market.
In contrast, Osnabrück have been active in adding 2. Bundesliga experience to their squad. They also have experience in the dugout with the former St. Pauli and Köln coach Timo Schulz at the helm.
The two clubs last met in a competitive game back in 2021 as Heidenheim extended their unbeaten run in the fixture to four with a 2-1 victory. Heidenheim are unbeaten against Osnabrück at home since a 3-1 defeat in 2011/12 3. Liga.
Team News
Mikkel Kaufmann and Leart Paqarda struggled with injuries last season, and both will be out of Heidenheim’s opening 2. Bundesliga fixture. Osnabrück’s new striker Jonathan Wensing is also unavailable due to a thigh injury.
Predicted Lineups
Heidenheim: Feller; Mhamdi, Mainka ©, Gimber, Föhrenbach; Schöppner, Niehues; Costly, C. Conteh; Zivzivadze, Pieringer
Osnabrück: Krumrey; Fabinski, Müller ©, Wiemann; Faber, Jacobsen, Wagner, Kammerbauer; Kopacz, Badjie; Meißner
