Cologne — Augsburg : Match Preview and Prediction for October 18,2025

Cologne’s Energetic Debut

Cologne made an enthusiastic start to their campaign, securing victories in their first two matches and impressively salvaging a 3-3 draw against Wolfsburg. However, as opponents gradually deciphered Lukas Kwasniok’s tactics, their momentum faltered, leading to a 1-3 defeat in Leipzig and a narrow 1-2 home loss to Stuttgart. Despite these setbacks, the “Billy Goats” concluded the pre-international break period on a positive note, clinching a vital 1-0 away victory against Hoffenheim in Sinsheim, thanks to an early goal from El Maii, which they successfully defended.

Current League Standing and Key Absences

This recent win ensures the hosts remain within the top 6 of the championship, currently occupying a coveted European qualification spot. The true measure of their resilience and consistency will unfold as the season progresses. For the upcoming fixture against Augsburg, Cologne’s squad will notably miss Kilian Van Den Berg.

Augsburg’s Summer Management Overhaul

Augsburg initiated extensive organizational changes over the summer, notably dismissing head coach Jess Thorup and sporting director Marinko Jurendic. These strategic decisions were driven by a stated “desire to further develop the project,” culminating in the appointment of Sandro Wagner to lead the Bavarian club.

Wagner’s Head Coaching Debut and Team’s Form

As Julian Nagelsmann’s former assistant with the German national team, Wagner is now undertaking his inaugural role as a senior head coach. Early indications suggest that the “Red-Whites” may have experienced a performance regression when compared to Thorup’s tenure during the previous season.

Early Season Struggles and Defensive Concerns

To be frank, the Bavarians are enduring a challenging start to this season, and the inexperienced manager’s position appears somewhat precarious, potentially at risk if results do not show a swift improvement. Although they managed to break a four-match losing streak with a 3-1 victory over Wolfsburg just before the international break, Augsburg’s defense continues to be a concern, conceding goals in every fixture. They currently occupy 14th place in the table, having only recently climbed out of the relegation zone after the sixth matchday. For the upcoming clash against Cologne at the RheinEnergieStadion, the visitors will be without Jeffrey Gouweleeuw and Elvis Rexhbecaj due to injury.