Heidenheim’s Coach Schmidt Eyes Upset Against Bayer Leverkusen

HEIDENHEIM, Germany — Heidenheim‘s head coach Frank Schmidt expressed optimism ahead of his team’s Bundesliga clash against Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday. Schmidt believes that lessons from a recent match against Arminia Bielefeld can guide Heidenheim, despite facing the reigning double winner.

Schmidt acknowledged that the challenge of facing Leverkusen, known for its strong away performance, is significant. ‘One should not be blinded by the game against Bielefeld. However, Bielefeld showed that defeating Leverkusen is possible. They executed it excellently,’ Schmidt noted in a press conference.

Leverkusen, fresh off a disappointing semi-final loss in the cup (1-2), remains a formidable opponent. Schmidt said that the match has clear dynamics, as Heidenheim, currently the worst home team, will face the best away team. ‘The signs are relatively clear. However, following our recent matches, we draw strength and confidence to approach this game with belief. We must keep them occupied,’ he emphasized.

Heidenheim will be without leading scorer Budu Siwsiwadse due to injury. Despite this setback, the team collected seven crucial points in their relegation battle recently, which boosts their morale as they head into an intense April schedule featuring matches against Leverkusen, Eintracht Frankfurt, Bayern Munich, and VfB Stuttgart.

‘Now the top teams are coming. Ideally, you want to secure points against Leverkusen to increase confidence. We are determined to take something from April, so we are ready for the decisive matches in May,’ Schmidt added. The match against Leverkusen is set to kick off at 3:30 p.m. local time.