Köln survive Würzburg scare as Jóhannesson seals comeback win | OneFootball

1.FC Köln were given an early scare by Würzburg but eventually demonstrated their class to secure a 2-1 comeback victory in the first round of the DFB-Pokal.

The Bundesliga side looked the better team for much of the opening stages, but it was Würzburg who took a shock lead after just 18 minutes. Full-back David Abrangao found a way past Köln goalkeeper and captain Marvin Schwäbe to put the hosts 1-0 ahead.

The goal came somewhat against the run of play, leaving René Wagner's side with plenty of work to do if they wanted to avoid an early DFB-Pokal exit.

Köln continued to push for an equaliser but had to wait until the second half to get their reward. After 62 minutes, midfielder Ísak Bergmann Jóhannesson finally broke through for the Bundesliga outfit, converting after being set up by Ragnar Ache to make it 1-1.

The Iceland international was not finished, however. Fifteen minutes later, Jóhannesson struck again to complete the comeback and put Köln 2-1 ahead.

There was a minor concern for Köln as starboy Said El Mala was forced off with a light knock. The injury did not appear to be serious, though, providing some relief for the Bundesliga side. The appearance was also a notable one for El Mala, as it marked his first game wearing Köln's number 10 shirt.

Würzburg refused to give up and pushed for a late equaliser, but Köln managed to withstand the pressure. Ultimately, the Bundesliga side's greater quality proved decisive.

There was therefore no cup upset in Würzburg, with Köln escaping a tricky tie and advancing after a hard-fought comeback victory.