Heidenheim Coach Schmidt Sees Victory as a ‚Small Step‘ Forward

Trainer Frank Schmidt of the recently struggling 1. FC Heidenheim views the triumph in the Conference League playoff first leg against FC Copenhagen as a „small step in the right direction.“ The team managed to secure a 2:1 victory after trailing at halftime, demonstrating that they „do not need to hide,“ as rising star Paul Wanner expressed in an RTL interview, hoping for renewed momentum for their upcoming Bundesliga clash against FSV Mainz 05 on Sunday (7:30 PM/DAZN).

Struggles in the Standings

Currently, the FCH sits on the relegation playoff spot in the league standings. Wanner remarked, „We can play just as boldly this weekend, and I believe the victory gives us the positive energy we need.“ He is confident that they will achieve a good result.

Limited Success Since October

Before the win at Parken Stadium, Heidenheim had only secured three victories since the end of October, with a lone win against 1. FC Union Berlin at the start of the year. Thus, the recent success in Copenhagen was crucial in establishing an advantageous position for the return leg next Thursday.

Impact of Past Struggles

Schmidt acknowledged the toll that past failures have taken on the players, suggesting that the mood at home mirrored his own, with his wife often feeling the effects of his frustration. He made ten changes to his starting lineup for the match, stating, „This will do everyone good. But once again: this is just one game, we have only played one half, and our full focus is now on Mainz.“