The duel of the promoted clubs: 1. FC Cologne host Hamburger SV — a fixture that stirs footballing passion. Both newcomers have impressed with brave, attacking football. Cologne’s 0–1 at Dortmund was harsh; they performed strongly but were punished late. With 11 points from eight games, Kwasniok’s side are doing well. Compact defensively, occasionally lacking only in finishing — as seen in Dortmund. Youngster El Mala continues to be a livewire in attack.
HSV, on the other hand, must find their footing again after two defeats. The 0–1 vs. Wolfsburg saw them miss countless chances, including a penalty. Coach Merlin Polzin demands more clinical finishing, especially from Königsdörffer, Dompé and Philippe.
Historically, HSV have the upper hand with four wins in their last five meetings, one draw — but the Bundesliga stage resets everything.
Forecast: History favours HSV, but Cologne seem slightly more mature and compact right now. Momentum is clearly with the hosts.