RB Leipzig achieved a turnaround as expected after two consecutive defeats. The DFB Cup winners prevailed 2:1 (2:1) against promoted 1. FC Heidenheim on Saturday and temporarily climbed back into a Champions League place. In front of 44,887 spectators, Loïs Openda (29th penalty) and Yussuf Poulsen (44th) gave Leipzig a clear lead before Benedikt Gimber (45+2) reduced the deficit. In the end, Leipzig remained unbeaten in the Bundesliga against a newly promoted team.
Only Leipzig's Poulsen was left over from the first duels between the two teams in the 2013/14 third division season. However, Leipzig's focus was on another player. Difference player Xavi Simons was in danger of being ruled out after falling on his shoulder in the 2:3 draw at Manchester City, but reported fit in time.
Driven by the Dutch international, Leipzig initially dominated the game and were keen to take an early lead. Heidenheim coach Frank Schmidt tried to soften the pressure with a more defensive formation. US international Lennard Maloney moved back from defensive midfield to the center of the back five.