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When Martin Heinrichs arrived in Denmark, it was clear to the 47-year-old that autumn had arrived. 14 degrees Celsius, light rain and grey skies. But the gloomy weather did not dampen the TSG Hoffenheim fan’s mood. Quite the contrary, in fact: After a four-year absence, TSG are finally back in European competition and the excitement ahead of the first Europa League game since the 2020/21 season is tangible. Especially as the matches back then were played behind closed doors due to the corona pandemic. For TSG supporters – including Heinrichs – the upcoming European game will be the first at the stadium since December 2018 (2-1 away to Manchester City).
“We can hardly wait, we’re really looking forward to the first game,” said Heinrichs. The Heilbronn native has previously travelled to almost every TSG match on the international stage, with the 47-year-old only missing the game away to Istanbul Basaksehir. Heinrichs is therefore experienced when it comes to European away days with TSG.
He chose an unusual route for his trip to Midtjylland. After attending TSG’s Bundesliga match away to Union Berlin, the Heilbronn native flew to Denmark on Sunday and has been in Herning ever since. “It’s very tranquil here. Apart from the Østergade street, where we Hoffenheim fans will meet, there’s not much going on.”
Heinrichs is waiting in a bar for other members of the First Generation Supporter fan club, whom he represents on the PreZero Arena pitch as a flag bearer at every home game. He has already met several Danish fans and gotten straight into a conversation over a cold drink: “Whether in Denmark, Ukraine or England, I’ve only had positive experiences with other fans to date. Everyone is always so friendly. I’m already looking forward to the other three away games.”
But before heading off to Porto, Braga and Anderlecht, the game in Midtjylland is first on the agenda. Heinrichs’ prediction a few hours before kick-off is a 1-0 win. The group will set off for the stadium at 18:30 CEST, hoping for their first victory of the new Europa League campaign. When the 47-year-old, who “fell in love” with TSG Hoffenheim in 2007, talks about his club, his dedication is palpable. Even the gloomy weather in Denmark cannot alter his sense of anticipation.
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