On Saturday, Borussia Dortmund travels to Heidenheim with its sights set on picking up three points to jumpstart its season after the international break. Borussia Dortmund are coming off an impressive 3-0 win over Union Berlin, whilst FC Heidenheim are coming off a 2-0 loss to Leipzig. This game should be a straightforward win for the Black and Yellows, but as we've often seen, Kovac's men will not be able to take anything for granted.
Dortmund is still without Nico Schlotterbeck, but as another hit to the defense, they're also without Anselmino after an impressive debut for Dortmund. Julian Brandt is another player who will be missing this weekend, but looking at the squad that is traveling to Heidenheim this weekend, it still seems to be a very straightforward game.
Borussia Dortmund have never lost to Heidenheim, but these head-to-head battles have always proved difficult for Dortmund. These are the games that historically have set Dortmund back. If they want to show that they will be title contenders, then they have to show they can win these away games against lower-level teams. Below are some predictions for the game :
Players to Watch
Serouh Guirassy: Guirassy is easily the most dangerous player for Borussia Dortmund and has consistently shown why. With three goals in his last three games, he sits tied with Harry Kane and Olise as the top goalscorer in the Bundesliga so far. He is on red-hot form so far, and Dortmund will look to create as many chances for him as they can, whilst Heidenheim will hope they can keep him quiet for the 90 minutes.
Leo Scienza: The Brazilian Scienza has been a shining light for Heidenheim's dark start to the season so far. He is the only player to score for Heidenheim in their first two games this season, and will look to hit the back of the net again and help Heidenheim finally beat Borussia Dortmund.
Match Predictions
Niko Kovac's men will look to build off their last win against Union Berlin and show how big a force they really are. Criticism from Dortmund fans has been loud and clear about the club not signing another creative player in the transfer window, and this is the type of game Dortmund will surely need someone to unlock the door against Heidenheim. I believe the pressure will be put on Kovac to put together a strong starting lineup, and one that can steamroll Heidenheim.
With no points from their first two games, Heidenheim will aim to make this game as uncomfortable as possible for the Black and Yellows and secure their first win of the season at home. Having never beaten Dortmund, Heidenheim will want to finally break the curse and show Dortmund what they're really made of. I believe Dortmund will walk away from Heidenheim with three points and a 0-3 win.