Cologne in a promotion frenzy: Injured stars and new tactics expected!

Cologne in a promotion frenzy: Injured stars and new tactics expected!

1. FC Köln is facing an exciting encounter against Borussia Dortmund on October 25, 2025. Coach Kwasniok will field a strong line-up that has performed well in recent weeks, despite some injury-related absences and uncertainty in the squad. FC's expected starting eleven will be led by goalkeeper Schwäbe, followed by a solid defensive line with Schmied, Hübers and Heintz.

In midfield, Cologne relies on Sebulonsen, Lund, Martel and Johannesson, while the offensive is strengthened by Kaminski, S. El Mala and Bülter. Given the failures that put a strain on the team, the composition is strategically important. The injured Thielmann will be replaced by Bülter in the attack center, which requires a corresponding change in playing style.

Missing players and alternatives

The list of injured players is long and is causing headaches in the FC camp. Adamyan, M. El Mala, Gazibegovic and Harchaoui are out, while Kilian will be particularly badly missed with a torn cruciate ligament and Thielmann with a muscle injury. Loud kicker.de Van den Berg is also affected with a sprained acromioclavicular joint and other players.

Despite the adversity, the team has some alternatives. The bench includes Zieler, Özkacar and Castro-Montes. Huseinbasic, Kainz, Krauß, Maina, Ache and Waldschmidt are also available to potentially be substituted. The main task will be to keep the offensive stable despite the absences.

The cards in play

Another point that creates tension is the approaching barriers. Schmied has already seen four yellow cards. If he is cautioned in the next game, he will be suspended for the following game. This could lead to further personnel changes that could affect preparations for the upcoming games.

At this stage of the season, Cologne's squad has been reduced due to injuries, but the team spirit remains unbroken. Surprises are always possible in football, and 1. FC Köln is hoping for a good result against their strong opponents from Dortmund. Loud League Insider The lineups are constantly updated so that fans are always up to date.

The competitive pressure is not getting any less because many other teams in the Bundesliga are also struggling with injuries. If you look at the overview of Transfer market, you can clearly see that injuries are a big issue, especially this season. Teams have to react more and more flexibly to unforeseen situations, and now it will be shown how well 1. FC Köln can deal with this situation.