Bayer Leverkusen take on the visitors Koln in the quarterfinal match of DFB Pokal. The match will be played on Wednesday, February 5th at BayArena (Leverkusen).
Bayer aim to maintain high standards. The Aspirins were long known as "Neverkusen," the perennial nearly-men of German football. However, Xabi Alonso changed that narrative in his first full season in charge, transforming them into "Neverlosen." Leverkusen went unbeaten on their way to a historic domestic double, claiming their first-ever Bundesliga title and later lifting the DFB-Pokal. The only blemish was a Europa League final defeat to Atalanta. Their winning streak continued in August with a Super Cup victory, albeit on penalties, though they suffered an early setback against RB Leipzig that same month. Domestically, their status has shifted—they are now Bayern’s main challengers. While they recently had a slip-up, they bounced back with a victory over Hoffenheim. Meanwhile, they stunned the German champions in the cup, winning in Munich. In the Champions League, they comfortably secured a place in the knockout rounds. With Alonso’s tactical brilliance and squad depth, Bayer remains a force to be reckoned with across all competitions.
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Köln are one of Germany’s most popular clubs, even by the country’s high standards. Under Steffen Baumgart, they briefly revived their ambitions, earning a spot in the UEFA Conference League. However, they failed to make an impact there, and in last season’s Bundesliga, constant managerial changes led to a disastrous campaign that ended with relegation. Now, under Gerhard Struber, they are making a strong push for an immediate return to the top flight, winning more than half of their matches. They also secured a 2-1 win over Eintracht Braunschweig on the road. In the cup, after eliminating Sandhausen, they also knocked out Holstein Kiel and Hertha. Their recent form suggests they are building momentum, but facing the defending Bundesliga champions will be their toughest test yet.
Last season, Bayer won both meetings, pushing themselves closer to the title while contributing to Köln’s relegation. Despite the visitors' strong form, the reigning Bundesliga champions should secure a comfortable home win.
Prediction for the match: Bayer to win with a -1.5 goal handicap.
