FC Copenhagen is set to host Heidenheim on February 13, 2025, at Parken Stadium for the much-anticipated knockout stage of the UEFA Conference League. Kickoff is slated for 5 PM Brasilia time, marking the first competitive outing for Copenhagen this year after what amounted to only friendly matches during their winter pause.
After establishing themselves as one of Denmark's premier teams with fifteen national titles, Copenhagen will be aiming to build on their average performance during the group stage of this tournament. Meanwhile, Heidenheim enters the match with considerable pressure, having recently suffered four consecutive losses in the Bundesliga, and are now fighting to escape the relegation zone.
Frank Schmidt, Heidenheim's manager, has faced challenges with player registration, as new signing Frans Krätzig is not included for the knockout stages, and captain Patrick Mainka will likely not start due to recent struggles. A notable injury includes Jonas Föhrenbach, who is unavailable following his early substitution due to concussion protocol.
Despite recent misfortunes, there is optimism within the Copenhagen camp. The team has significant experience on continental soil, which will be pivotal when facing their German counterparts. Diant Ramaj, who has signed with Borussia Dortmund, hopes for a bright debut after conceding four goals during the team's friendly against AGF.
The odds highlight Copenhagen as favorites with a projected probability of 66.01% for victory against Heidenheim and odds of 1.7. Bet365 indicates similar trends, showing an increasing probability for Copenhagen's win, bolstered by their home advantage as they have won their last six home matches. On the contrary, Heidenheim's away record remains bleak, having conceded twenty goals over their last seven away matches.
Both teams boast key players whose performances may significantly affect the result. For FC Copenhagen, the attacking prowess of Claesson and Larsson will be instrumental. Conversely, Heidenheim's fate rests heavily on the shoulders of Pieringer and Conteh as they attempt to break through Copenhagen's defense.
Fans can expect a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for advancement, but with mixed fortunes leading up to this clash, Copenhagen's continuity and experience may prove invaluable. SportyTrader anticipates more than two goals will be scored, reflecting the attacking nature both teams might lean on. Copenhagen’s recent matches have shown they are capable of producing high-scoring games, evidenced by the outcome of four of their last six encounters featuring at least two goals.
On the other hand, Heidenheim's struggle marks them as underdogs, but they hope to channel the pressure of their exit from the relegation zone to find success on the European stage. The match promises drama, with Copenhagen likely controlling the pace of the game. Copenhagen's focus will not merely be on winning; they’ll look to establish dominance early, ensuring they capitalize on their home turf.
The anticipation surrounding the UEFA Conference League has grown, especially with teams' current forms leading to many betting opportunities. With betting platforms indicating favorable odds for Copenhagen, it will be interesting to see if their stride leads them to victory over Heidenheim. Sports fans and bettors alike will be eagerly watching the developments as these two teams prepare to step onto the field.