Mathias Honsak stars as Heidenheim end winless run against Union Berlin
Heidenheim ended a 15-game winless streak in the Bundesliga with a 3-1 victory over Union Berlin at home. The crucial win, their first since December, was inspired by a Mathias Honsak brace, which helped them secure a vital three points in their fight against relegation.
The hosts, who had drawn with Bayer Leverkusen and Stuttgart in recent weeks, finally turned their resilient performances into a victory. The win, their first in the Bundesliga in 2025, was built on a dominant first-half display. The opening goal came from Honsak, who finished first-time from a Marvin Pieringer delivery. The 29-year-old Austrian forward then doubled his and his team's tally ten minutes before halftime, finishing smartly after a move that originated from a throw-in. Honsak's brace ended a long personal goal drought and was the foundation for the victory.
Union Berlin, who have now failed to win in their last three matches, improved after the interval and pulled a goal back in the 73rd minute. A corner kick was not properly cleared, allowing defender Leopold Querfeld to score from close range. However, Heidenheim substitute Budu Zivzivadze restored the two-goal cushion just four minutes later with a fine strike, securing the three points. Zivzivadze had another goal disallowed for offside in stoppage time.
The result sees Heidenheim, who remain in the relegation playoff spot, cut the gap to the team above them to six points ahead of the rest of the matchday's fixtures. Union Berlin, meanwhile, remain in mid-table after a disappointing performance. The match also saw a historic moment for the visitors, as 16-year-old Linus Guther came off the bench to make his Bundesliga debut, becoming the second-youngest player to appear in the league's history.
Heidenheim will look to build on this result when they face European hopefuls SC Freiburg next weekend. Union Berlin, who have now conceded three goals in consecutive games, will look to return to winning ways when they host fellow mid-table side Wolfsburg.
