
Robin Hack's double propels Borussia Mönchengladbach to commanding victory in Heidenheim
Robin Hack scored twice as Borussia Mönchengladbach continued their impressive away form with a convincing 3-0 victory over Heidenheim.
Heidenheim 0-3 Borussia Mönchengladbach
Goals: 0-1 Hack 8’ (assist: Weigl), 0-2 Ngoumou 18’ (assist: Pléa), 0-3 Hack 59’ (assist: Netz)
Gladbach arrived at the Voith-Arena looking to continue their impressive away form, having won their last two Bundesliga matches on the road. The Foals faced a struggling Heidenheim side, who were desperate to halt their slide towards the relegation zone. The match also marked a significant milestone for Gladbach's 18-year-old goalkeeper Tiago Pereira Cardoso, who made his Bundesliga debut. Adding to the intrigue was the return of Tim Kleindienst to face his former club, where he had been a prolific goalscorer during Heidenheim's promotion campaign.
Gladbach's clinical first-half display
Gladbach wasted no time in asserting their dominance, taking the lead after just eight minutes. Julian Weigl played a sublime pass that split the Heidenheim defence, allowing Hack to race clear and coolly slot past Kevin Müller. The visitors doubled their advantage in the 18th minute when Nathan Ngoumou combined brilliantly with Alassane Pléa before firing a powerful shot into the net. Heidenheim struggled to respond, with their best chance falling to Jonas Föhrenbach, who headed wide from close range. The hosts' frustration was evident when Frank Schmidt made an early tactical substitution, bringing on Léo Scienza for Luca Kerber in the 33rd minute.
Heidenheim's brief resurgence quelled
Heidenheim emerged from the break with renewed vigour, nearly pulling a goal back when Scienza's 30-yard free-kick rattled the crossbar. The hosts continued to press, with a VAR check for a potential penalty adding to the tension, but the decision went in Gladbach's favour. Their hopes were dashed in the 59th minute when Hack struck again. The in-form forward combined with Luca Netz before curling a low shot into the far corner, effectively sealing the match for Gladbach. Hack thought he had completed his hat-trick shortly after, but his effort was ruled out for offside following another VAR intervention. Heidenheim refused to give up, creating several chances, but found Cardoso alert on his debut. The young goalkeeper made a crucial save from Benedikt Gimber's powerful drive to maintain his clean sheet.
Player of the Match: Robin Hack
Hack's outstanding performance was instrumental in Gladbach's convincing victory. The forward displayed clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and excellent link-up play throughout the match. His two goals were taken with aplomb, the first a composed finish after a perfectly timed run, and the second a skilful curling effort that showcased his technique. Hack's contribution extended beyond his goals, as he consistently troubled the Heidenheim defence with his pace and positioning. The 25-year-old's display not only secured the three points for his team but also highlighted his growing importance to Gerardo Seoane's side.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Heidenheim 1.2 - Mönchengladbach 1.48
Fastest player: Nathan Ngoumou (Gladbach), 34.7 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 0-2 by Nathan Ngoumou (Gladbach), 8 percent
Most pressed player: Léo Scienza (Heidenheim), 20 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Julian Weigl (Gladbach), 3.08
Fantasy Heroes: Robin Hack (Gladbach, 372 Points), Benedikt Gimber (Heidenheim, 213 Points), Nathan Ngoumou (Gladbach, 208 Points)
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