FC Heidenheim will host Borussia Dortmund in a Bundesliga clash this afternoon. Frank Schmidt’s side are searching for their first points after two losses, while the Black and Yellow come off a convincing win and aim to maintain unbeaten form early in the season.
After saving themselves via the promotion/relegation play-off last season, FC Heidenheim were red-hot favourites to drop down ahead of this term, and their performances against Wolfsburg and RB Leipzig have not done anything to aid any worries.
Softfootball understands that Heidenheim have lost big players this summer, and the late departure of Leo Scienza leaves the club without any real match winners capable of creating moments out of nothing.
Potentially living up to expectations thus far this season, the home team have not had the greatest of starts. They face a stern test this afternoon, as they welcome Borussia Dortmund to Voith Arena.
FC Heidenheim Confirmed XI: Ramaj, Schöppner, Gimber, Mainka, Zivzivadze, Honsak, Kerber, Beck, Ibrahimović, Traoré,
Subs: Paçarada, Müller, Busch, Siersleben, Schimmer, Niehues, Föhrenbach, Kaufmann, Dorsch, Conteh.
LET‘S GO❗️
Mit dieser Elf starten wir gegen den @BVB. 🫵
🔴🔵 #NurDerFCH #FCHBVB pic.twitter.com/Hp0ms6KON8
— 1. FC Heidenheim 1846 e. V. (@FCH1846) September 13, 2025On the transfer front, Dortmund have bolstered their squad by bringing in key players such as Carney Chukwuemeka, Yan Couto, and the promising Jobe Bellingham.
Aaron Anselmino made an immediate impact after being introduced into the starting lineup against Union Berlin after he completed his season long loan switch from Chelsea this summer. Effectively stepping in for the suspended Filippo Mane, earning positive feedback from the coach.
Under the guidance of Niko Kovač, Dortmund have made a solid beginning, currently placed fourth in the league table with four points from their opening two games. The Black and Yellow secured a dominant 3-0 win against Union Berlin following a thrilling 3-3 draw with St. Pauli in their first fixture.
Despite their good form, Die Schwarzgelben are dealing with multiple injury setbacks. Captain Emre Can is sidelined with a groin injury, and Niklas Süle won’t be available until mid-October due to a calf issue. Nico Schlotterbeck is still in recovery mode from a knee injury sustained earlier this year, while new recruit Fábio Silva remains out with a muscle problem.
Julian Brandt faces uncertainty as he battles to return from wrist surgery, which caused him to miss recent international duty with Germany. Additionally, Julien Duranville is ruled out with a shoulder injury.
Borussia Dortmund Confirmed XI: Kobel, Couto, Anton, Bensebaini, Nmecha, Guirassy, Groß, Beier, Svensson, Ryerson, Adeyemi
Subs: Meyer, Özcan, Jobe, Chukwuemeka, Sabitzer, Campbell, Mané, Kabar.
🚨 STARTING XI VS HEIDENHEIM 🚨 pic.twitter.com/rUoI4JBKTQ
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) September 13, 2025
