Heidenheim vs Union Berlin
Bundesliga
Saturday
30th September 2023
Voith-Arena
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 6 of the Bundesliga fixture between Heidenheim and Union Berlin.
Heidenheim vs Union Berlin: Preview
Heidenheim form analysis
1. FC Heidenheim 1846 began their cup campaign with a 0-2 home loss to Wolfsburg, outclassed by their Bundesliga opponents. They followed that up with a valiant 2-3 home loss to Hoffenheim, twice leading before a late Kramaric penalty.
Heidenheim then pushed Dortmund all the way in a thrilling 2-2 draw in the next round, taking the lead twice through Dinkci and Kleindienst. Their best performance came in beating Werder Bremen 4-2 at home, inspired by a Dinkci brace. Most recently however, defensive issues resurfaced in a 1-4 home loss to Leverkusen.
Overall, Heidenheim have impressed in the cup, competing well against top flight opposition and showcasing their attacking talents. Dinkci has been excellent, netting 4 goals already. At their best, Heidenheim have troubled Bundesliga sides, but conceding has been an issue at times. If manager Frank Schmidt can tighten them up defensively, Heidenheim have an excellent chance of pushing for promotion from the 2. Bundesliga again this season. But adding greater solidity at the back is key.
Union Berlin form analysis
Union began their Bundesliga season with an impressive 4-1 away win at Darmstadt, led by a Gosens brace. However, defensive issues surfaced in a 0-3 home loss to RB Leipzig, outclassed by the Champions League chasers. Union did respond by beating Wolfsburg 2-1 away from home thanks to goals from Wind and Mahle. They followed that up with a tight 1-0 loss away at Real Madrid in the Champions League after holding on until a late Bellingham goal. Most recently however, Union lost 0-2 at home to Hoffenheim, with Kramaric and Beier on target.
Overall, it’s been an inconsistent start by Union under new manager Urs Fischer. They’ve showcased their attacking threat at times, led by new signing Gosens down the left. But defensively there have been lapses, leaking 6 goals in their last 3 games. If Union can retain their threat going forward while tightening up at the back, they can challenge for European qualification again this term. But restoring greater solidity and concentration defensively is crucial after recent heavy defeats.
