The game, the team’s first after the winter break, kicks off at 18:30 CET at the Mercedes-Benz Arena.
“I’m really looking forward to the atmosphere, the energy and the emotions in the stadium on Wednesday,” said Matarazzo at his pre-match press conference. “I’m sure we’ll have a good game. Heidenheim are an awkward opponent who run a lot and are disciplined. It’s no accident that they’re fourth in the table and have the best defensive record in the league [18 goals conceded].”
Matarazzo also stated that VfB’s focus in their first competitive assignment of 2020 will be on having a solid backline and greater thrust in attack: “It’s about how to create scoring chances. We need to find stimulus in our forward play and generate a certain change of pace as we attack. When everyone’s on the same page, it’s more likely that we’ll get our chances.”
Kobel in goal, hope for youngsters
The 42-year-old is keeping his options open as to who will begin against VfB’s regional rivals. “The starting line-up hasn’t been determined yet. We’ve still got two days of training, and a lot can happen in that time.”
What is already certain, however, is that Marc Oliver Kempf will lead the side out as captain and that Gregor Kobel will play in goal. Meanwhile, academy players Antonis Aidonis (U21) and Lilian Egloff (U19) both have hopes of being included in the matchday squad.
Silas Wamangituka returned to full training on Monday after recovering from a cold, but Mateo Klimowicz is unlikely to feature due to illness. Maxime Awoudja is also doubtful with an adductor muscle complaint, while Holger Badstuber will be sidelined with a groin strain.