The match played on Saturday at Voith Arena concluded with a 2-2 draw between Heidenheim and Cologne.
Heidenheim came out strong, showcasing their intent to dominate with a goal from Marvin Pieringer in the 14th minute. However, their lead was short-lived, as Eric Martel equalized for Cologne just three minutes later, scoring in the 17th minute. Julian Niehues then restored Heidenheim’s lead in the 26th minute of the first half. But Said El Mala emerged as the hero for Cologne, striking a powerful shot just two minutes into the second half to secure the final score of 2-2.
Said El Mala had a standout performance, netting one goal for Cologne. Marvin Pieringer also shone brightly for Heidenheim with his goal.
Heidenheim’s head coach, Frank Schmidt, opted for a 4-3-3 formation featuring Diant Ramaj in goal; Omar Traoré, Patrick Mainka, Tim Siersleben, and Jonas Fohrenbach in defense; Jan Schöppner, Julian Niehues, and Niklas Dorsch in midfield; and Sirlord Conteh, Marvin Pieringer, and Arijon Ibrahimovic in attack.
On the other hand, Lukas Kwasniok’s side employed a 3-4-3 formation, with Marvin Schwäbe guarding the net, supported by Sebastian Sebulonsen, Eric Martel, and Jahmai Simpson-Pusey in the backline. The midfield consisted of Jan Thielmann, Tom Krauss, Denis Huseinbasic, and Alessio Castro Montes, while Fynn Schenten, Ragnar Ache, and Jakub Kaminski led the offensive line.
Robert Schröder officiated the match.
In their next fixtures, Heidenheim will travel to Mainz, while Cologne will host Bayern Munich at home. Following this match, Heidenheim sits at 17th place in the league with 12 points, whereas Cologne remains at 10th place with 17 points.
Substitutions for Heidenheim
59’ 2H – Jan Schöppner was replaced by Adrian Beck, and Arijon Ibrahimovic was substituted by Mathias Honsak.
77’ 2H – Marvin Pieringer made way for Stefan Schimmer, and Omar Traoré was substituted for Marnon Busch.
82’ 2H – Sirlord Conteh was taken off for Mikkel Kaufmann.
Yellow Cards for Heidenheim
43’ 1H – Arijon Ibrahimovic (Unsportsmanlike conduct) and 6’ 2H – Jonas Fohrenbach (Unsportsmanlike conduct).
Substitutions for Cologne
45’ 2H – Denis Huseinbasic was substituted out for Said El Mala.
61’ 2H – Fynn Schenten was replaced by Linton Maina.
74’ 2H – Alessio Castro Montes made way for Kris Lund and Jan Thielmann was substituted for Marius Bülter.
91’ 2H – Youssoupha Niang was brought on.
Yellow Card for Cologne
21’ 1H – Eric Martel (Unsportsmanlike conduct).