FC Heidenheim’s Coach Reflects on Performance Despite Loss to Augsburg

omidbasir- FC Heidenheim continues to occupy the last position in the Bundesliga table following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Augsburg this weekend. Despite the setback, head coach Frank Schmidt expressed a more positive outlook compared to the previous week.

In his remarks regarding the team’s fourth consecutive loss, Schmidt acknowledged the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the match, particularly the late penalty that decided the game. “We deserve to feel a tad unlucky when one takes the entire game into account,” he stated. “After an evenly matched first half, we gradually found our rhythm and created several opportunities. Augsburg was eventually pushed back into their own half, and we secured many crucial ball wins along with numerous chances to score.”

Schmidt further elaborated on the team’s performance: “We executed well both inside and outside the penalty area. We should have taken the lead, as we had ample chances and space around the 18-yard box. Following the penalty in the 80th minute, the dynamics of the game changed completely in the last 10 minutes.”

Overall, Schmidt felt that his team delivered a commendable and stable performance in an away match. “The body language was solid, and we saw improvement throughout the game. However, style and beauty do not earn points, and this isn’t figure skating,” he remarked.

The coach highlighted specific contributions from his players, particularly the two January signings, Christian Conteh and Eren Dinkçi. Conteh, who finally returned from injury, started on the left wing for his first Bundesliga appearance, while Dinkçi played a pivotal role as a deep-lying playmaker, aiding his midfield partners Julian Niehues and Jan Schöppner in creating chances. Additionally, Bayern loanee Arijon Ibrahimovic also performed well on the right flank.

New acquisition Hennes Behrens supported Conteh strongly from left-back, while Conteh’s brother Sirlord and striker Marvin Pieringer made impactful contributions from the bench.

“Today, one could see not just hope but actual belief within the team,” Schmidt concluded in the press conference. “They believed they could achieve a favorable result today. I emphasized the importance of focusing solely on winning the match rather than concerning themselves with the relegation race.”

Schmidt reflected on the team’s challenging position, stating, “This isn’t the first time we’ve faced pressure and a significant points gap. However, it did not impair our approach to the game or the execution of our game plan. In every match this year, we’ve created enough opportunities to have gained more than the two points we currently have from our seven fixtures in 2026.”