Heidenheim vs Wolfsburg Prediction & Betting Tips (23 August)

As the Bundesliga kicks off its 2025/26 campaign, Heidenheim welcomes Wolfsburg to the Voith-Arena in what promises to be a compelling curtain-raiser. Heidenheim, fresh off a dramatic survival in last season’s relegation playoff, enters the match with renewed grit and a point to prove. Coach Frank Schmidt, now in his 18th year at the helm, has opted for continuity over overhaul, relying on a core group that includes captain Patrick Mainka and breakout attacker Leo Scienza. The Brazilian forward, who netted the decisive goal against Elversberg to keep Heidenheim in the top flight, remains the subject of transfer speculation, with clubs like Köln and Mönchengladbach circling. Despite a quiet summer in the market, Heidenheim’s pre-season form has been encouraging, including a 5-0 rout of Bahlinger SC in the DFB-Pokal.

Wolfsburg, meanwhile, arrives with a mix of optimism and concern. Their 9-0 demolition of SV Hemelingen in the German Cup showcased attacking depth, but the injury to starting center-back Denis Vavro—who underwent adductor surgery—has disrupted defensive plans. Coach Paul Simonis may turn to Moritz Jenz or even 19-year-old David Odogu to fill the void, though Jenz himself is reportedly seeking a move away. The club also finalized the transfer of Tiago Tomas to Stuttgart, trimming their attacking options. Wolfsburg’s recent Bundesliga form has been patchy, with just one win in their last six league outings, and their defensive frailties—12 goals conceded in that stretch—remain a concern.

Historically, Wolfsburg has dominated this fixture, winning five of the last seven meetings. However, Heidenheim stunned them with a 1-0 win in March, and their home resilience could tilt the balance again. With Diant Ramaj now installed as Heidenheim’s No. 1 goalkeeper following a brief controversy involving long-time custodian Kevin Müller, the hosts appear more settled at the back. Arijon Ibrahimović, on loan from Bayern, adds flair to the midfield, and Schmidt’s side will look to exploit Wolfsburg’s defensive reshuffle. Expect Heidenheim to press early and capitalize on set pieces, where Mainka’s aerial prowess could be decisive.

In terms of prediction, the stars seem to align for a narrow Heidenheim victory. While Wolfsburg’s firepower can’t be ignored, the absence of Vavro and the uncertainty around Jenz could leave gaps for Scienza and Ibrahimović to exploit. A 2-1 scoreline in favor of Heidenheim feels plausible—an echo of their gritty, underdog spirit and tactical discipline. With the home crowd behind them and a coach who thrives on defying expectations, Heidenheim may well start their season with a statement win.