Heidenheim vs Chelsea: Predicted lineups, team news and score prediction

Bundesliga side Heidenheim prepares to face Chelsea in a crucial UEFA Conference League Group Stage clash at Voith-Arena on Thursday evening. The match features two teams with perfect records in the competition, setting the stage for an intriguing battle between the European newcomers and the English powerhouse.

Heidenheim’s European adventure and domestic struggles

Heidenheim's remarkable journey under Frank Schmidt has seen the club climb from Germany's fifth tier to the Bundesliga since 2007. Their maiden European campaign has yielded impressive victories against Olimpija Ljubljana, Pafos FC, and Hearts.

However, their domestic performance paints a concerning picture, with the team currently positioned 15th in the Bundesliga, barely above the relegation playoff zone. A recent 5-2 loss to Bayer Leverkusen extended their winless streak to seven matches across all competitions.

The hosts face mounting injury concerns ahead of this crucial clash, with their prolific striker Marvin Pieringer ruled out until February with an Achilles setback. The midfield options have been further depleted as both Thomas Leon Keller and Julian Niehues continue their lengthy spells on the treatment table.

Injured: Marvin Pieringer, Thomas Leon Keller, Julian Niehues

Chelsea’s dominance in Europe

Chelsea arrives in Germany displaying exceptional form in Europe, having netted 16 goals in their first three Conference League matches. Their latest European fixture resulted in an emphatic 8-0 victory over FC Noah. The London club currently holds third place in the Premier League, following a 2-1 triumph over Leicester City, where Nicolas Jackson and Enzo Fernández found the net.

The Blues travel without Reece James, who is nursing a hamstring strain. Malo Gusto and Pedro Neto are questionable for the fixture, while Levi Colwill might be rested. Manager Enzo Maresca plans to rotate his squad, with Tosin Adarabioyo, Renato Veiga, and Christopher Nkunku likely to start.

Injured: Reece James
Doubtful: Malo Gusto, Pedro Neto

Heidenheim vs Chelsea: Predicted lineups

Heidenheim: Müller; Traoré, Siersleben, Mainka, Theuerkauf, Schöppner, Maloney, Conteh, Beck, Honsak, Pieringer

Chelsea: Jørgensen, Disasi, Badiashile, Adarabioyo, Veiga, Caicedo, George, Nkunku, Felix, Mudryk, Guiu

Match details and broadcasting information

The match kicks off on Thursday, November 28, 2024, with global broadcast coverage:

Kick-off times

UK: 17:45 GMT
USA: 12:45 EDT / 9:45 PST
India: 11:15 PM IST

Broadcast channels, streaming platforms

UK: TNT Sports 1, Discovery+
USA: Paramount+, ViX
Canada: DAZN Canada
India: Sony Sports Network, Sony LIV

Given Chelsea's superior squad depth and recent form, coupled with Heidenheim's domestic struggles and injury concerns, the English side appears positioned for a convincing victory.

Score prediction: Heidenheim 0-4 Chelsea.