FC Köln secured a 1‑0 victory over 1. FSV Mainz 05 with a late header from Timo Horn, preserving their position just above the relegation zone. The win, achieved through a disciplined defensive display and a swift counter‑attack, moves Köln to 13th place with 30 points after 18 games, while Mainz remains in 12th.
Match Overview
First Half
The opening half was tightly contested, with both sides creating limited chances. Köln’s back four, led by Matthias Ginter, held firm against Mainz’s high press. Possession was evenly split, and the half ended 0‑0 after a series of blocked shots and defensive clearances.
Second Half and Decisive Goal
In the 78th minute, Mainz’s wing‑back Danny da Costa unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, only for goalkeeper Marvin Schwäbe to tip the ball onto the crossbar. The rebound fell to midfield maestro Jonas Heinz, who delivered a precise cross to Silvan Widmer. Widmer’s run on the right wing set up Timo Horn, whose header found the bottom corner, giving Köln the lead they would protect until the final whistle.
Post‑Match Impact
The three points lift Köln to 13th place, two points clear of the relegation playoff spot, and underline coach Steffen Funk’s emphasis on defensive resilience. For Mainz, the loss stalls their push for an upper‑mid‑table finish, leaving them one point behind Köln with a challenging schedule ahead.
Statistical Snapshot
- Shots (on target): Köln 12 (5), Mainz 11 (4)
- Possession: Köln 48%, Mainz 52%
- Pass Accuracy: Köln 81%, Mainz 78%
- Key Moment: Horn’s header (78′) after Schwäbe’s crossbar save
