It will head coach Christian Streich’s 390th Bundesliga match, and the final time he takes charge of SCF in front of the Freiburg fans. It goes without saying that Streich’s final home game will be an emotional affair but the players have other things on their minds. Streich himself emphasised this in the pre-match press conference. “It shouldn’t be about me tomorrow – it’s all about the match. We’ve still got work to do. We’re competing with a few other teams to achieve something special this season.” It’s clear SCF’s head coach is alluding to the battle for the Europa League places. Should Freiburg qualify, next year would be the third season in a row that the club compete in European competition alongside the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal.

Heidenheim head coach Frank Schmidt noted that his side are in a similar position. “Tomorrow is Christian Streich’s final home game as Freiburg head coach. It’s well known that I hold him in very high regard. However, that won’t matter for 90 minutes – there are other things on the line.” Heidenheim are also in with a chance of qualifying for European competition next season, as they currently sit 10th in the table – three points behind SCF.

Keep it simple and stay calm

Heidenheim are mathematically safe from relegation following their 1-1 draw with Mainz last weekend. Streich called on his team to stay alert ahead of the clash – “We’ve got to pool our strengths. It’s going to be a tense, exciting game. It’s a home game that we want to dominate. We’ve got to make everyone in the ground feel our desire.” One thing is certain - SCF will be able to count on their fans’ support in a sold-out Europa-Park-Stadion. “The fans know what’s at stake,” said Streich.

Nicolas Höfler is back in the frame to return to the side on Saturday. The 34-year-old missed the match against Köln after accumulating too many yellow cards. “Chico’s going to play, so our structure’s going to be different again,” stated Streich, who is acting under the assumption that Saturday’s opponents are going to play with a lot of physicality and energy - “It’s their style.” Streich explained that SCF will need to “keep it simple and stay calm” if they want to come out on top against FCH and move one step closer to qualifying for Europe. “We can’t let ourselves get jumpy in front of goal. We need to make sure we keep trying to find ways into their box. We’ve not been as active in this regard as we have in the past.”
 

Photo: Achim Keller