1. FC Köln vs Hoffenheim preview: hosts chase upset after Pokal lift | OneFootball

1. FC Köln host Hoffenheim on Saturday seeking an early upset, with both clubs buoyed by first round DFB Pokal wins. According to BuLi News, Köln want to improve on last season's 14th and target a first top-half finish since promotion.

Ísak Jóhannesson struck twice to overturn a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 victory at Würzburger Kickers in the Pokal, with substitute Linton Maina supplying the decisive assist.

Ellyes Skhiri featured in Würzburg, introduced in the 74th minute, and will no doubt feature again on Saturday. Köln are unbeaten in their last three meetings with Hoffenheim.

Coach Rene Wagner said the squad are fired up for the first home game and a full stadium, and they have a chance to win.

Team news for Köln, Luca Waldschmidt and Sebastian Sebulonsen suffered muscular and hamstring problems in pre-season, while Timo Hübers remains out with a long-term knee injury.

Hoffenheim aim to stabilise themselves in Europe again after reaching the Europa League last season. Patrick Wimmer scored a brace in a comprehensive 4-0 cup win over third-tier Erzgebirge Aue, with Wouter Burger also on the scoresheet.

They began last season with a historic away win at Bayer Leverkusen, but Tim Lemperle is suspended for this trip and cannot face his former club. Second top scorer Fisnik Asllani looks like he will stay after a move to RB Leipzig collapsed. Bernardo and Alexander Prass are out injured.

Source: BuLi News

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