FC Cologne vs RB Leipzig: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Published at :March 13, 2024 at 1:58 PM

Modified at :March 13, 2024 at 1:58 PM

Matchday 26 of Bundesliga 2023-24 is set to be underway

FC Cologne have struggled to meet expectations this season, enduring a winless streak in their last five matches with a combination of draws and losses. Their defensive performance is very poor this season, characterized by a vulnerability that has resulted in conceding numerous goals. Additionally, some key players have failed to meet the anticipated standards.

The team currently finds itself embroiled in a relegation battle, holding only 18 points and trailing Bochum, who are 7 points clear of the relegation zone. With each match growing in significance, FC Cologne must secure positive results moving forward to improve their standings and avoid relegation.

Currently occupying the 5th position in the Bundesliga table with 46 points, RB Leipzig are vigorously contending for a top-four spot to secure a place in the Champions League next season. As clear favourites in the upcoming fixture, Leipzig faces a challenging match where their opponents are expected to exert maximum effort to secure valuable points. This matchup promises to be an exciting one, presenting a compelling spectacle for viewers to anticipate.

Kick-Off:

Friday, 15th Mar 2024, 07:30 PM (GMT), 03:30 PM (EST)

Saturday, 16th Mar 2024, 01:00 AM (IST)

Stadium: Rhein Energie Stadion

Form

FC Cologne Form (All Competitions): D-L-D-L-D

RB Leipzig Form (All Competitions): W-D-W-L-W

Players to watch

Florian Kainz (FC Cologne)

Kainz primarily operates in wide areas and behind the strikers, but his style of play frequently leads him to come inside and occupy the half-spaces. Beyond these tendencies, Kainz possesses distinguishing characteristics that set him apart from a conventional winger.

He actively participates in the build-up play, whether it involves deeper positions or providing the final pass. Technically adept, Kainz excels in ball retention and navigating through tight spaces.

Lois Openda (RB Leipzig)

When analyzing Openda’s style of play, he is most accurately defined as a central forward with the flexibility to function as a winger on either flank. Unlike a static target man who awaits passes, Openda actively engages in the game. His outstanding dribbling skills stand out as one of his key strengths. He presents a substantial counter-attacking threat and consistently impresses with his finishing prowess, never failing to deliver.

Match Facts

FC Cologne haven’t won in their last 5 games.
FC Cologne have a -23 goal differential and they are 16th place in the table.
Last season’s matches: 0-0 (FC Cologne at home) and 2-2 (RB Leipzig at home).

Injury and Team News

Due to injury, Luca Waldschmidt, Marius Wolf, and Justin Diehl will be unavailable for the upcoming match for the home team.

Lucas Klostermann is sidelined due to injury for Leipzig, while the remaining players are available for the upcoming match.

Head-to-Head

Matches: 13

FC Cologne: 2

RB Leipzig: 6

Draws: 5

Predicted Lineup for FC Cologne vs RB Leipzig

FC Cologne Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):

Schwabe(GK); Carstensen, Hubers, Chabot, Finkgrafe; Huseinbasic, Martel; Alidou, Kainz, Maina; Adamyan

RB Leipzig Predicted Lineup (4-2-2-2):

Gulacsi(GK); Raum, Lukeba, Orban, Simakan; Schlager, Kampl; Simons, Elmas; Poulsen, Openda

Match Prediction for FC Cologne vs RB Leipzig

Both teams have witnessed inconsistent performances recently, with FC Cologne frequently settling for draws and Leipzig oscillating between wins and losses. FC Cologne has faced challenges in finding the back of the net, while Leipzig showcases a more potent attacking record. The visiting team is poised to secure all three points in this encounter.

Prediction: FC Cologne 0-2 RB Leipzig

Telecast for FC Cologne vs RB Leipzig

India: Sony Sports Network, SonyLIV

UK: Sky Sports

USA: ESPN

Nigeria: SportyTV

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