Hoffenheim Suffers Home Defeat Against Cologne in Bundesliga Match
TSG 1899 Hoffenheim were defeated 1-0 by 1. FC Köln in a Bundesliga encounter played at the Dietmar-Hopp-Stadion. The match saw Cologne secure a narrow victory, moving them temporarily up to fourth place in the league table. Hoffenheim, meanwhile, remain in tenth position.
The game began with an early opportunity for Hoffenheim, with Damar’s attempt thwarted by a strong save from Cologne goalkeeper Marvin Schwäbe in the sixth minute. However, Cologne quickly capitalized, with Dejan Ljubčić striking in the 23rd minute to put the visitors ahead. The young German international skillfully navigated the Hoffenheim defense to slot the ball past Baumann.
Hoffenheim demonstrated resilience, with Asllani attempting a through-ball for Touré in the 23rd minute, although another effort proved unsuccessful against Schwäbe. Ljubčić nearly doubled Cologne’s lead before halftime, but his shot in the 45th minute sailed just over the crossbar. A late attempt by Asllani was also denied by the Köln goalkeeper, leaving the visitors with a slender lead at the interval.
The second half saw Hoffenheim pressing for an equalizer. Touré came close in the 51st minute, but a well-placed defensive block prevented a goal. Cologne remained a threat, with Kaminski missing a prime opportunity to extend their advantage in the 65th minute and again in the 88th, where Baumann made a crucial save. Despite Hoffenheim’s continued pressure, Cologne managed to maintain their lead and secure the three points.
