Cologne Reorganizes as Key Player Exits Before BVB Clash; Youngster Debuts
As the relegation battle intensifies, 1. FC Köln faces significant challenges ahead of their crucial match against Borussia Dortmund. The clash is set for Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 18:30 CET, and will be broadcasted live on Sky.
Setbacks for Köln Before BVB Clash
Coach Lukas Kwasniok has had to navigate injuries impacting key players. Most notably, Alessio Castro-Montes has suffered a setback during the final training session. After just returning from an injury, he experienced discomfort in his thigh. Although he had impressed during the week’s practices, his absence leaves a gap in the right-back position.
Key Players Missing
- Alessio Castro-Montes: Thigh injury
- Sebastian Sebulonsen: Muscle injury
- Joel Schmied: Muscle injury
- Jan Thielmann: Muscle injury
With these injuries, Köln’s options for the right side remain limited. In response, Kwasniok has decided to reposition Tom Krauß from midfield to the right-back position in a four-man defense. Krauß will join Schwäbe, Van den Berg, Simpson-Pusey, and Lund in the defensive line.
Starting Lineup Confirmation
Kwasniok has revealed the starting formation as follows:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Schwäbe |
| Right Back | Krauß |
| Center Back | Van den Berg |
| Center Back | Simpson-Pusey |
| Left Back | Lund |
| Midfield | Martel |
| Midfield | Johannesson |
| Right Wing | Kaminski |
| Left Wing | El Mala |
| Forward | Niang |
| Forward | Ache |
There is a silver lining for Köln. Said El Mala is set to start despite a recent muscle issue that limited his play to just 30 minutes against Augsburg. Additionally, Kwasniok has elected to include Youssoupha Niang in the starting eleven for his debut. Isak Johannesson also earns a spot in the first team, as the coach continues to adjust the lineup ahead of this critical fixture.
As Köln prepares for this crucial encounter against Dortmund, the need for points is more pressing than ever as they aim to improve their standing in the relegation battle.
