FC return with win
After a hard-fought 1:0 win over Würzburger Kickers last Sunday, 1. FC Köln Frauen welcome Eintracht Frankfurt II to Köln at the weekend. Amber Barrett continued her record of scoring the opening goal in every league game this season. This time, her goal was the only one in the game as FC managed to keep their first clean sheet of the campaign.
That was backed up by a solid defensive showing, especially that of Manon Klett in goal. There was also a new face within the FC ranks at the weekend. Ricarda Schraber, who joined in Winter Break, set up Barrett’s goal. “I was a bit nervous at the start as it was my first competitive game for a while. I didn’t want to disappoint and put in a good performance, to show that I belong here,” she said.
It was just the case for Schraber, who is very happy at her new club. Schraber added, “I feel great in Köln. FC are a traditional club and it is an honour for me to play here.” The 23-year-old is now looking forward to her first home game. The defeat to Hoffenheim was FC’s only loss thus far this season. However, Sascha Glass’ side have already gotten the better of 1. FC Saarbrücken, Bayer Leverkusen and TSG Hoffenheim II on home soil this term.
The opposition
The visitors are in good form following their 5:1 win over 1. FFC Niederkichen on Wednesday. Kim Kulig’s side came back from 1:0 down, with Johanna Berg grabbing a second-half hat-trick. Her charges have picked up six points from a possible nine in the opening three matches of the season.
Wednesday’s win also marked their return to action, having sat out the weekend round of fixtures. Kulig is looking forward to Sunday’s showdown: “In Köln, a top-quality opponent is waiting on us. It is a game where we will have to put in a super performance to take something from the match. We’ll go into the game with confidence and with trust in our own qualities.”
Johanna Biermann, Caroline Krawczyk, Karla Reuter, Michelle Hochstadt and Emily Kraft will all miss the game with various knee injuries. Carla Schulz is also absent with a stress fracture. Vanessza Nagy and Celine Karich are doubtful ahead of the clash.
Watch the game live
SoccerWatch are broadcasting the 2. Frauen Bundesliga live this season. Just like last weekend’s game against Würzburg, Sunday’s meeting with Frankfurt is also available to watch live.