Stuttgart aim to bounce back at home
Stuttgart will look to return to winning ways after their 2-0 Europa League defeat to Basel — their first game this season without scoring. Despite that, Sebastian Hoeness’s side have been excellent domestically, winning three straight Bundesliga matches before Thursday.
At home, Die Roten are strong: they have won three consecutive games at the MHPArena, matching their entire total from the previous eight home fixtures. However, defensive focus remains a concern, with nine of their last goals conceded coming before the 10th or after the 80th minute.
Heidenheim searching for consistency
Heidenheim ended a four-match losing streak with a 2-1 victory over Augsburg but have scored only four league goals this season. Their attack remains one of the weakest in the Bundesliga, creating few chances and struggling away from home.
Frank Schmidt’s men did beat Augsburg comfortably in performance terms, yet their lack of cutting edge could cost them against a more dynamic Stuttgart side.
Prediction
Stuttgart’s superior home form and attacking depth should make the difference here, but their defensive issues might allow Heidenheim to find a goal.
