Emotional moment: Henrichs back after a period of suffering

Ridle Baku was also delighted and hugged his opponent when he had to come on for him. For international Benjamin Henrichs, his late substitution in the 90th minute of RB Leipzig's 3-0 (0-0) win at Heidenheim put an end to a long spell out of action. He returned to action for the first time since tearing his Achilles tendon at the end of 2024.

"It's emotional for everyone involved," said Baku, the scorer of the interim 1:0. "He's a great guy, important for the team, important for the dressing room. And I'm just happy that he can be back on the pitch after such a long period of suffering."

Coaches and team-mates rejoice

The game had long been decided when Henrichs ran onto the pitch. But that wasn't so important at that moment. He had suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the 5-1 defeat in Munich on December 20, 2024. Henrichs only returned to team training in December 2025. He was back in the squad for the first time a week ago in the 5-1 draw against Munich. Now he took the next step with his first few minutes of the game.

"You could see it when he came on: The whole bench was standing," said RB coach Ole Werner. "Benny is simply a really important player. He's had a tough time, but he's really come through it with flying colors." Henrichs had also suffered setbacks and underwent a second operation in the spring.

Rival Baku will pave the way for victory in Heidenheim

Time is now running out for the 19-time international. After all, Henrichs wants to recommend himself for this summer's World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada. And in his absence, his direct Leipzig rival Baku managed to return to the national team after a four-year absence.

Baku also came into focus in Heidenheim. With his opening goal (62nd minute), the right-back opened the scoring after a disappointing first half for RB. Antonio Nusa (68) and David Raum (70) then quickly made everything clear with further goals.

RB will be looking to master their next task in the race for the Champions League places against a relegation candidate in the catch-up game at FC St. Pauli on Tuesday evening - and for Henrichs to gain match practice.