Overview

• 1. FC Heidenheim faces VfB Stuttgart on Friday at 20:30 CEST, with the match broadcast on DAZN.
• Coach Frank Schmidt has publicly framed the fixture as a 'Derby' for the first time, citing the geographic proximity and growing significance of the rivalry.
• Heidenheim is battling to hold onto 16th place, which secures a relegation playoff, as the Bundesliga season nears its conclusion.
• Several key players, including captain Patrick Mainka, risk suspension due to yellow card accumulation, adding complexity to the team's strategy.
• Schmidt demands greater passion and resilience from his squad following a heavy 0:4 defeat to Bayern Munich last weekend.