Heidenheim vs St. Pauli: prediction, H2H and probable lineups — 25.04.2026
One of the key fixtures in the Bundesliga's battle for survival will unfold on Saturday at the Voith-Arena in Heidenheim, where the hosts face St. Pauli. For Heidenheim, this is a do-or-die match — a loss could officially relegate them to the second division. Here’s my bet on the outcome of this high-stakes encounter.
Match preview
Heidenheim approach this game in a critical situation: Frank Schmidt’s squad are bottom of the table, trailing the relegation playoff spot by seven points. In the previous round, the hosts fell 1-2 to Freiburg — a harsh result, as their performance arguably deserved more, with both goals conceded after deflections.
Before that, Heidenheim had enjoyed a promising three-match unbeaten streak, including a 3-1 win over Union. Now, the team need more than just a result — they must play at their emotional peak, as even a draw is almost meaningless at this stage.
St. Pauli aren’t sitting pretty either: Alexander Blessin’s side are 16th and haven’t tasted victory in six straight Bundesliga outings. After a 0-5 drubbing by Bayern, the visitors at least stabilized with a 1-1 draw against Köln, but concerns about their form remain.
The main weakness for St. Pauli is their away record: just two wins on the road all season. However, history favors the visitors, who have won seven of their last ten head-to-head clashes with Heidenheim, including a 2-1 victory in the reverse fixture.
Probable lineups
- Heidenheim: Ramaj, Busch, Mainka, Föhrenbach, Behrens, Ibrahimović, Schöppner, Dorsch, Honsak, Pieringer, Sessa.
- St. Pauli: Vasilj, Ando, Wahl, Mets, Saliakas, Rasmussen, Irvine, Pyrka, Sinani, Fujita, Hountondji.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Heidenheim could be relegated this round if they lose.
- St. Pauli are winless in their last six Bundesliga matches.
- St. Pauli have won seven of the last ten head-to-head encounters.
Prediction
Heidenheim will be playing at their absolute limit, fully aware this is their last chance to keep the relegation fight alive. With such motivation and a passionate home crowd, the hosts are capable of delivering their best performance of the season. St. Pauli’s instability and away struggles could prove decisive here.
