FC Koln - Hoffenheim

Can FC Koeln establish early momentum as they host Hoffenheim on 29 August 2026 at RheinEnergieSTADION for matchday 1 of the Bundesliga? The home side enters the contest following a narrow 2-1 victory over Wuerzburger Kickers in the DFB Pokal. The expected XI for the hosts features a balanced structure, with Marvin Schwaebe in goal and a forward line led by Ragnar Ache and Marius Buelter. However, they will have to manage without Sebastian Sebulonsen, who is sidelined due to injury.

Hoffenheim arrive in Cologne buoyed by a dominant 4-0 cup win against Erzgebirge Aue. Their expected lineup includes Oliver Baumann in goal and a midfield anchored by Wouter Burger and Nathan De Cat, though they must navigate the absence of the suspended Tim Lemperle. These sides last met in the Bundesliga on 21 February 2026, playing out a 2-2 draw.