Heidenheim avoids relegation with a dramatic stoppage time goal!

Heidenheim avoids relegation with a dramatic stoppage time goal!

The second leg of the relegation to the Bundesliga between SV Elversberg and 1. FC Heidenheim took place on May 27, 2025. The game at the Kaiserlinde stadium ended with a dramatic 1:2 for Heidenheim, meaning the club remained in the Bundesliga. It was a game full of emotions and twists.

The game started promisingly for Heidenheim. Honsak scored the first goal in the 9th minute. However, Elversberg showed a strong reaction and was able to equalize with a goal from Fellhauer in the 31st minute. In the second half, Elversberg was superior, but was unable to create any clear chances. Heidenheim, which had more influence on the action at the beginning of the game, struck a lucky punch in stoppage time: Scienza scored the decisive goal for Heidenheim in the 95th minute.

Game progression and tactical decisions

In the 50th minute, the VAR ruled out offside for an alleged hit for Elversberg, which had a significant impact on the course of the game. Despite a good opportunity for Elversberg in the 62nd minute, the pressure on Heidenheim remained noticeable in the second half. Heidenheim's coach Frank Schmidt made it clear that efficient use of opportunities was crucial to staying in the Bundesliga. His team mobilized all their strength, which paid off in the end.

In the first leg, which took place the previous Monday, there was already an exciting encounter that ended 2-2. Heidenheim even overcame a two-goal deficit in the second half, which was a sign of their fighting spirit. The return to the Bundesliga is of enormous importance for 1. FC Heidenheim, as staying in the league would bring financial advantages.

Meaning of relegation

Relegation to the Bundesliga has a long tradition and has taken place since 1982. Since the 2008/09 season, the third-to-last Bundesliga team and the third-placed second division team have been playing to stay in the league. Normal spectator numbers are often sold out for these crucial games, as was the case with the encounter in the Voith Arena.

The abolition of the away goals rule came into effect in 2021/22, meaning a draw could lead to a possible extension. This makes the games even more exciting because every point and every goal counts. With the win in the second leg, Heidenheim now has the chance to continue to look forward to the Bundesliga adventure.

Overall, it shows that relegation is a controversial topic in the football world. The DFL is closely monitoring how these games are used to generate TV money and for the competitiveness of the teams. Critics often criticize the sporting quality of the matches, while the teams fight for everything to either get promoted or avoid relegation.

The next few months will now be crucial for Heidenheim and its future in the Bundesliga. The team under Frank Schmidt will be visibly relieved to look forward to the coming season after this emotional game.