Stuttgart vs Heidenheim Preview Prediction Team News and Lineups

Stuttgart and Heidenheim Face Off in Crucial Bundesliga Showdown

Stuttgart Eyes Champions League Qualification

Stuttgart continues its pursuit of Champions League qualification on Sunday as it faces Bundesliga strugglers Heidenheim at the MHPArena. Currently in fifth place, Stuttgart recently secured a 2-1 victory over FC Koln, bringing their points tally to nine. Meanwhile, 17th-placed Heidenheim is looking to build on their recent 2-1 win against Augsburg, despite being on just three points.

Recent Form and Performance Insights

Stuttgart’s recent performance against FC Koln was marked by effective use of set-pieces as 70% of their xG (1.87) came from dead-ball situations. However, they stumbled in their recent Europa League match against Basel, falling 2-0 and failing to score for the first time in their last nine games. Under the guidance of manager Sebastian Hoeness, Stuttgart has shown vulnerability during the early and late stages of matches, conceding their last nine goals within the first 10 or after the 80th minute.

Despite the setback against Basel, Stuttgart’s recent form remains robust, having won three consecutive league matches before the loss, with six goals scored and just two conceded. Hoeness has led Stuttgart to three straight home victories at MHPArena, matching their total home wins from their previous eight games at the stadium.

Heidenheim’s Battle Against the Odds

Heidenheim’s narrow 2-1 victory over Augsburg underscores their on-field dominance, although their scoring woes persist with only four league goals this season. Their offensive struggles are highlighted by having the fewest touches inside the box of any team in the league. Manager Frank Schmidt will be keen on reversing their fortunes as they face Stuttgart for the ninth competitive meeting, with both teams having won three times previously.

Despite a shaky record, Heidenheim’s recent away form has shown promise, having secured victories in four of their last five away matches in the 2024-25 season. However, a defeat on Sunday could signal their third consecutive away loss.

Team News and Lineups

Stuttgart faces a challenging fixture without forward Deniz Undav, though Ermedin Demirovic remains available to lead the attack. Angelo Stiller is expected to maintain his starting position in midfield, while Finn Jeltsch’s injury opens the door for defenders Luca Jaquez and Julian Chabot to start.

Heidenheim’s defensive resources are stretched with Thomas Keller and Leart Paqarada sidelined. They are likely to field a back four of Haktab Omar Traore, Patrick Mainka, Tim Siersleben, and Jonas Fohrenbach. Striker Marvin Pieringer’s absence could see Mikkel Kaufmann taking on a more prominent role upfront.

With Stuttgart showing improved performances despite their recent loss to Basel, they are expected to be favorites in this matchup. Heidenheim, struggling at both ends of the pitch, may find it challenging to secure points at MHPArena if they concede early.