Bayern Munich travel to the RheinEnergieStadion to face a spirited FC Köln side in the DFB-Pokal second round on Wednesday night. The Bavarian giants aim to maintain their incredible winning streak.
FC Koln vs Bayern Munich – Match Preview and Team News
- Date: 29th October, Wednesday.
- Kick-off: 8:45pm BST.
- Venue: RheinEnergieStadion, Koln.
FC Koln Team News
The Billy Goats have endured a difficult few weeks on the injury front, with several key personnel sidelined ahead of this crucial clash. Centre-back Timo Hübers suffered a gruesome knee injury against Borussia Dortmund and underwent immediate surgery, ruling him out for an extended period. Fellow defenders Luca Kilian, who is dealing with yet another ACL rupture, and Rav van den Berg, the summer signing from Middlesbrough, are also unavailable due to shoulder surgery following his injury against Wolfsburg.
Midfielder Jan Thielmann remains sidelined, adding to Köln’s defensive woes. However, Eric Martel has impressed playing as a hybrid defensive midfielder and centre-back, receiving praise from manager Lukas Kwasniok for his hard work against elite opposition. Cup goalkeeper Ron-Robert Zieler will replace Marvin Schwäbe between the sticks.
Despite their injury crisis, Köln can draw positives from summer signings Marius Bülter, who has notched two goals and three assists in six appearances, and Said El Mala, who has recorded three goals and one assist in just eight league games. Jakub Kamiński has also established himself firmly in the team since arriving from Wolfsburg.
Bayern Munich Team News
Vincent Kompany’s side continues to roll with confidence, having won all 13 of their matches across all competitions this season. The German record champions set a historic benchmark by becoming the first club in Europe’s top five leagues to win their opening 12 games, equalling the record previously held by AC Milan from 1992-93.
Harry Kane continues his remarkable form, scoring 20 goals in 12 games in all competitions. Earlier this season, Kane became the fastest player to reach 100 goals for any club in Europe’s top five leagues in the 21st century, achieving the feat in 104 games. The English captain’s clinical finishing has been instrumental in Bayern’s relentless run.
Serge Gnabry is expected to feature after overcoming minor injury concerns, whilst Jamal Musiala is targeting a December return from his long-term injury. Luis Díaz has settled impressively since his €75 million move from Liverpool, recording seven goals and four assists in 12 games.
Form
FC Koln
Lukas Kwasniok’s newly promoted side have shown tremendous character throughout the season. The Billy Goats sit eighth in the Bundesliga with 11 points from eight games, maintaining their respectable position despite recent setbacks. However, their form has stuttered recently, suffering a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund six minutes into injury time, extending their winless run to two matches. In the DFB-Pokal, Köln have already impressed by beating Regensburg 2-1 in the first round, showcasing their cup credentials.
Bayern Munich
Kompany’s charges have been absolutely ruthless, moving from strength to strength with each passing fixture. The Bavarians concluded their weekend with a commanding 3-0 away victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach, showcasing their defensive solidity and attacking prowess in equal measure.
Predicted Lineups
FC Koln: Zieler; Ozkacar, Martel, Heintz; Lund, Huseinbasic, Johannesson, Sebulonsen; El Mala, Kaminski; Bulter.
Bayern Munich: Urbig; Bischof, Kim, Upamecano, Boey; Goretzka, Kimmich; Diaz, Gnabry, Olise; Jackson.
How to Watch FC Koln vs Bayern Munich?
Sky Sports will provide live coverage of the match across Germany.
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