Heidenheim vs Union Berlin: Match Preview

Heidenheim face Union Berlin in a Bundesliga clash that could define their season. They're stuck in 17th place with just 19 points from 26 games, and this isn't the time for slip-ups in a relegation scrap. Union Berlin sit comfortably in 10th on 32 points after 28 matches, but don't count on them resting easy.

And let's not forget, Heidenheim already got the better of Union Berlin earlier this year, snatching a 2-1 win back in November. That result shows they've got the tools to upset the odds, even if their overall form hasn't been stellar. Injuries are piling up for both sides, though. Heidenheim will miss Mikkel Kaufmann due to muscular issues, and Jan Schöppner's suspension from that yellow card last week won't help their midfield. Sirlord Conteh's knee problem might keep him out until early May, adding to the woes. Over at Union Berlin, Robert Skov's been sidelined since mid-March with muscular trouble, and Matheo Raab's hand injury could rule him out until mid-April.

But eyes will be on the stars who might turn the tide. Heidenheim's Stefan Schimmer and Luca Kerber have been their go-to scorers, and they'll need to deliver if they're to climb out of the drop zone. Union's Andrej Ilić has been carrying the attack, and he's one to watch for any breakthroughs. It's a matchup where desperation meets mid-table malaise, and I reckon Heidenheim's fight could make this a tight affair.

They should find a way to nick something here, given their recent edge over Union. Expect a gritty game with both teams pushing hard, but Heidenheim's hunger might just edge it. I'm backing them to at least hold their own.