Hamburg finally celebrated a league victory again, their first in more than seven years. Two Premier League loanees from London clubs played decisive roles in the 2-1 triumph over FC Heidenheim. Tottenham’s Luka Vuskovic put the hosts ahead in the 42nd minute, scoring the club’s first Bundesliga goal since 2018. Arsenal midfielder Fabio Vieira, who joined on deadline day, later created the assist that sealed the win.
The result brought relief to HSV, who are fighting to stay clear of immediate relegation. Vieira and fellow Gunner Albert Sambi Lokonga are both expected to carry significant responsibility in helping the team avoid a quick drop back to the second tier.
Vieira steps up in midfield
After struggling in a substitute role on the right wing during last weekend’s heavy defeat at Bayern, Vieira was given a central role by coach Merlin Polzin. He replaced Nicolas Capaldo and partnered Nicolai Remberg in a double-six system. The tactical shift provided Hamburg with a playmaker rather than two defensive midfielders.
Polzin admitted after the match that Vieira is likely to keep Capaldo’s spot, praising him as “a player who can make the difference.” According to the coach, the Portuguese midfielder’s presence in the middle allows him to influence the game more and push the team forward.
Key contributions in attack
Vieira was involved in both HSV goals. He earned the free-kick that led to Vuskovic’s opener before halftime. Later, in the 59th minute, he broke through on the right and delivered the cross that French attacker Rayan Philippe converted to make it 2-1. Philippe, a new summer arrival, gratefully acknowledged that playing alongside Vieira gave him the chance to score his first goal for the club.
Goalkeeper Daniel Heuer Fernandes also praised his half-Portuguese teammate, noting that Vieira’s ability to calm the game and bring control was exactly what the side had been missing.
