Bambase Conte pushes for Hoffenheim start against Dortmund

Bambase Conte has strengthened his case for another starting role after an impressive Bundesliga debut for Hoffenheim against Cologne.

The 23-year-old began the 3-2 defeat unexpectedly, but responded with an assist for Hoffenheim’s opening goal and won a second-half penalty.

Conté also played the full match, combining his attacking contribution with committed defensive work. His display has given head coach Christian Ilzer a welcome selection dilemma ahead of Saturday’s Bundesliga meeting with Borussia Dortmund.

“He deserved to start based on our assessment of the opponent,” Ilzer said. “He made the assist for the 1-0, won the penalty and produced a very committed defensive performance. He belongs to a large group of players who give us the opportunity to choose the right team.”

Conté spent last season on loan at SV Elversberg, helping the club secure promotion to the Bundesliga. He has since returned to Hoffenheim, where Ilzer sees him as part of a broader plan to improve the squad’s depth amid domestic and European demands.

“Bamba Conté makes us stronger in terms of our squad depth,” Ilzer added.

The forward has also been included in Hoffenheim’s Europa League league-phase squad. However, Tim Lemperle’s return from suspension increases competition for places, leaving Conté’s role against Dortmund unresolved.