DFB Pokal

Würzburger Kickers

24 Aug 2026 17:00

FC Köln

Prediction:

FC Köln to win 1.31

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Würzburger KickersDraw FC Köln

Würzburger Kickers vs FC Köln Predictions, Picks & Odds – 24/08/2026

DFB Pokal · 1st Round

Our prediction

2: FC Köln to win

1.31 on Betano · Confidence Medium

Odds recorded on 22 Aug 2026 at 19:38 · Odds are subject to change

Würzburger Kickers vs FC Köln Preview

Würzburger Kickers are riding a wave of confidence into this DFB Pokal first-round clash at the flyeralarm-Arena. Michael Schiele's side have won their last five competitive matches, including a commanding 4-0 demolition of SV Wehen Wiesbaden. Sitting third in the 3. Liga after two matchweeks, the Kickers boast a remarkable 16-match unbeaten home run, winning 12 of those fixtures. That record makes them a genuine threat in any cup tie.

FC Köln arrive with superior pedigree but mixed recent form, having won just one of their last five competitive outings. A 14th-place finish in the Bundesliga last season underlined a difficult campaign, and new permanent head coach René Wagner will view this tie as a chance to set a positive tone. Wagner has confirmed he will field his strongest available XI, though Luca Waldschmidt misses out with muscular problems alongside long-term absentees Sebastian Sebulonsen and Timo Hübers.

FC Köln's away form reads poorly, with just one win in their last five on the road. However, the quality gap between a Bundesliga squad and a 3. Liga side remains significant. René Wagner confirming his strongest XI signals serious intent, with Marvin Schwäbe between the posts and Jan Thielmann pulling strings at number ten. The away win at 1.31 reflects that class difference.

Würzburger Kickers' 16-match unbeaten home run is formidable, and their five consecutive victories show a team full of belief. Michael Schiele's side will make life uncomfortable at the flyeralarm-Arena. Still, Köln's superior individual quality, even without the injured Luca Waldschmidt, should prove decisive. The pick here is FC Köln to win at 1.31.

Goals could flow in this fixture. Köln's defensive vulnerabilities on the road, combined with the Kickers' attacking confidence after that 4-0 demolition of Wehen Wiesbaden, point toward an open contest. Both teams to score at 1.03 looks a strong supplementary selection alongside the over 2.5 goals market at N/A. Odds and markets subject to change.

Trends to Know about Würzburger Kickers vs FC Köln

• Kickers unbeaten in 16 home matches
• Köln fielding strongest XI available
• Köln missing Waldschmidt, Sebulonsen, Hübers

A compact 3-5-2 from Würzburger Kickers meets Köln's 4-2-3-1 in what shapes up as a classic cup clash between a lower-division side banking on defensive structure and a professional outfit with greater individual quality. Köln's lineup carries stronger sourcing confidence, including official club confirmation, while Würzburg's XI remains probable.

For the visitors, Jan Thielmann operating behind lone striker Ragnar Ache gives Köln a creative threat through the lines, and their double pivot should help control transitions. Würzburg's wide wingbacks will be central to any upset ambitions, pressing high to disrupt Köln's build-up before it finds rhythm.

How to Watch Würzburger Kickers vs FC Köln Match?

What time is Würzburger Kickers vs FC Köln?

Kickoff at the flyeralarm-Arena is set for 24 August 2026 at 17:00 local time.

Where is Würzburger Kickers vs FC Köln being played?

This DFB Pokal first-round tie takes place at the flyeralarm-Arena in Würzburg.

How Can I Watch Würzburger Kickers vs FC Köln on TV and Live Stream?

Check local listings for DFB Pokal broadcast details, as coverage varies by region and provider.