Heracles seek response against TOP Oss after cup setback

Heracles Almelo will look to put their KNVB Cup disappointment behind them when TOP Oss visit on Monday evening. The game is the first of two home fixtures in quick succession, with Roda JC due in Almelo on Friday.

Heilmann said Heracles had reviewed their defeat to De Treffers and found their attacking play particularly disappointing in the first half. He felt the team improved after the interval and appeared capable of taking control before a red card disrupted their momentum. He stressed that the squad remains highly critical of its performances after both victories and defeats.

Attention has now returned to the league and Heracles’ promotion objective. Heilmann expects TOP Oss to present a different tactical challenge from De Treffers, who applied heavy pressure and defended man-to-man. Heracles remain unbeaten at home heading into the fixture, a record he believes should give the players confidence. “We are determined to produce a response,” he told the club’s official website.

Heracles will be without Mario Engels, Rhys Bozinovski and Yvandro Borges Sanches against TOP Oss. Fodé Fofana and Manny Rodriguez are also doubts for the match, leaving Heilmann with several potential absences as his side begins an important week on home soil.