Heidenheim, who had been promoted this year, played well and forced Dortmund into making errors, the visitors failed to regain the rhythm that had seen them win three straight games to begin 2024. Despite dominating possession and having eight first-team players out due to illness and injury, Dortmund was unable to overcome a resolute and spirited home squad, aside from Donyell Malen's first-half goal that was overturned by VAR.
Heidenheim has only lost two of their ten home games this season, placing them ninth in their inaugural Bundesliga campaign. Without midfielders Marco Reus and Julian Brandt, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, and winger Jadon Sancho Dortmund had a difficult time holding back Heidenheim. Dortmund pulled even on points with Stuttgart in third place, but the draw also allowed them to extend their lead over fifth-place RB Leipzig to four points.