Köln Ends Losing Streak with Double Strike Victory Over Mainz
The 1. FC Köln achieved a crucial victory against FSV Mainz 05, ending their eight-match winless streak. The match took place on January 17, 2026, and Köln won 2-1 after a remarkable comeback.
Köln’s Comeback Performance
Köln’s head coach, Lukas Kwasniok, faced scrutiny for his recent personnel decisions. However, his choices paid off in this match. Substituted player Ragnar Ache scored both goals for Köln, helping to secure the important win.
Match Highlights
- First half: Mainz took the lead with a goal from Stefan Bell in the 29th minute.
- Second half: Ache scored twice, first in the 57th minute and again in the 85th minute.
The win was essential for Köln, as a victory for Mainz would have brought them just two points behind. After this win, Köln moved up to 10th place with 20 points. Mainz, on the other hand, dropped to the second-to-last position, remaining with only 12 points.
Key Player Performances
Despite struggling initially, Köln’s players showed notable determination. Young national player Said El Mala, who was under significant scrutiny, started the match and made a vital contribution.
| Player | Goals |
|---|---|
| Ragnar Ache | 2 |
| Stefan Bell (Mainz) | 1 |
Match Analysis
In the first half, Mainz appeared more organized and had better control over the match. Their defensive setup made it difficult for Köln to find scoring opportunities. Köln struggled with set pieces, which led to Mainz’s opening goal.
However, the second half saw a renewed vigor from Köln. They applied pressure and created multiple chances, ultimately leading to Ache’s pivotal goals. His strong presence in the box turned the tide, allowing Köln to celebrate a much-needed victory.
Upcoming Matches
Köln will face SC Freiburg next, while Mainz will take on VfL Wolfsburg. This latest result demonstrates the competitive nature of the league and underscores the importance of every match as teams fight for vital points.
