Bundesliga Friday Preview: Koln Host Hoffenheim

FC Koln manager Zvonimir Soldo will be disappointed with the way things are going for his side this season. With only four points from their first five games, and disappointing losses to Kaiserslautern, Mainz and Werder Bremen, Soldo will definitely be looking for a change of pace against Hoffenheim on Friday. Hoffenheim manager Ralf Rangnick, however, will be looking to attack what has been a very defensive-minded Koln side. Even though Hoffenheim are on the road here, they boast a wealth of stronf, offensive players who will look to get forward at every opportunity.

Lukas Podolski will be the man Koln look to for goals, despite his knack for only turning his game on at the international level. In the press recently, Podolski has spoken out about Koln’s defensive style, and a desire for his side to press on more often and look for the lead. Against Hoffenheim, however, a defensive approach might be the right option for coach Zvonimir Soldo, who will be wary of Hoffenheim’s counter-attacking threat.

Koln will look to soak up the pressure and play short, simple passes and look to catch Hoffenheim out at the back. Hoffenheim, however, will likely press their opponents and look for chances on goal at every opportunity. Should be a good match, and a close one. 1-2.