Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Bundesliga match.
At first glance, a meeting between the 16th and 18th-placed sides in the Bundesliga might not grab the headlines. However, with both teams entrenched in a fight for top-flight survival, the tension is palpable — and that often leads to high drama on the pitch.
Heidenheim
Heidenheim appear to have a considerably better chance of retaining their Bundesliga status, albeit likely through the relegation play-offs. In the previous round, they secured a dramatic 89th-minute triumph over VfB Stuttgart, thanks to a long-range effort from Matthias Honsak. Still, they remain five points behind 15th-placed TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. That team has lost three of their last four matches but, for now, remain in relatively safer territory.
Bochum
Bochum, on the other hand, failed to defeat 1. Union Berlin at home. The team managed only one goal, converting a penalty on the rebound after Matus Bero saw his initial effort saved by the goalkeeper — who later made a crucial stop in the 96th minute to preserve the draw. And that was on home turf. On the road, Bochum have managed just one win in their last seven away fixtures. That solitary victory did come against Bayern Munich (3:2), but even a stopped clock is right twice a day. The other six matches brought only two draws.
Heidenheim vs Bochum Prediction
Heidenheim should be considerably more motivated than Bayern Munich. A draw does little to help either team, but the hosts look better positioned to claim all three points.
