This match is a true relegation battle with guaranteed excitement – not because one team will sit deep, but because both sides are extremely close. Union Berlin (32 points, 13th place) face Köln (31 points, 14th place), direct neighbours in the table. A look down the standings shows: the gap to the relegation play-off spot (St. Pauli, 26 points) exists, but is far from safe. With three matchdays remaining, a win here could almost secure survival – for both teams.
At Union, the focus remains on new head coach Marie-Louise Eta. The start with two defeats was far from ideal. Now it is about initiating a turnaround, and this home match is perfectly suited for that.
FC Köln have recently shown they can compete, for example in their strong performance against Leverkusen. However, their biggest issue remains chance conversion – many opportunities, too few goals.
Prediction: This is a classic 50/50 game. Union have the home advantage, Köln sometimes look clearer in their play, but in the end efficiency will likely decide.