- FC Heidenheim has secured their place in the Bundesliga for the 2025-26 season, following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over second-division side SV Elversberg in the relegation playoff. The decisive goal, scored by Léo Scienza in the 95th minute, ensured Heidenheim's survival in Germany's top flight.
Elversberg is bested by Heidenheim, maintaining their elite status following triumphant clash
FC Heidenheim Secures Bundesliga Survival in Nail-biting Playoff Victory
The first leg between the two teams ended in a draw. In the return leg at the Ursapharm-Arena, a tense match unfolded, with both teams vying for the advantage. Mathias Honsak gave Heidenheim an early lead in the ninth minute, but Robin Fellhauer equalized for Elversberg in the 31st.
As time wore on, the game appeared headed for extra time. However, in a dramatic turn of events, Scienza scored the winning goal deep into stoppage time, securing Heidenheim's survival in the Bundesliga.
SV Elversberg, who are based in a town of 13,000 inhabitants, had enjoyed an impressive promotion streak over the past four years, having achieved promotion from the Regionalliga to the 2. Bundesliga in 2023. Regrettably, their third promotion in four years was not meant to be.
"We were clearly the better team, but Heidenheim decided it with one of their very few attacks," lamented SVE sports director Nils-Ole Book. "We deserved it more, but congratulations to them."
After squandering a 2:0 lead in the first leg, the narrow defeat was especially disappointing for the Saarlanders. Heidenheim, on the other hand, breathed a sigh of relief, celebrating wildly at the Elversberg stadium following their dramatic victory.
The 2025-26 Bundesliga season now beckons for 1. FC Heidenheim, as they prepare to face off against some of the country's top clubs once more.
[1] Source: Uefa.com[2] Source: Sport1.de[3] Source: Spiegel.de[4] Source: Kicker.de
In the aftermath of their nail-biting victory, 1. FC Heidenheim will compete in the 2025-26 Bundesliga season, marking their return to Germany's top flight. Meanwhile, European leagues offer a new challenge for Heidenheim, as they gear up to face some of the continent's top football clubs.
