Hoffenheim vs. FC Köln preview: Two sides aiming to get back to winning ways

Christian Ilzer’s side narrowly avoided relegation last season, finishing just three points above the playoff spot. However, a strong start to 2025/26 has lifted them into mid-table and within touching distance of the European positions.

Hoffenheim responded well to their heavy 4-1 defeat at Bayern Munich by earning a 1-1 draw away at Freiburg last weekend. After conceding early through Lukas Kübler, Fisnik Asllani’s equaliser secured a valuable point and steadied the mood in Kraichgau.

That result leaves them 10th in the Bundesliga with seven points, part of a tight pack of clubs chasing the top four. Home form remains a major concern, though – Hoffenheim have lost both home games so far this season, in addition to their final two of last term.

Hoffenheim’s defensive options are stretched. Valentin Gendrey (broken ankle), Hennes Behrens (hamstring) and Koki Machida (knee) are all sidelined, while Albian Hajdari is a doubt through illness. Robin Hranac and Arthur Chaves are expected to partner at centre-back, flanked by Vladimir Coufal and Bernardo.

Further forward, Adam Hložek (ankle) remains a long-term absentee.

Predicted lineup – 4-2-2-2: Baumann – Coufal, Hranac, Chaves, Bernardo – Avdullahu, Tohumcu – Kramarić, Touré – Asllani, Lemperle

After winning the 2. Bundesliga title last season, Lukas Kwasniok’s Köln made a flying start to life back in the top flight, opening with three straight victories – including a thumping 4-1 win over Freiburg.