Form check
SC Freiburg: Christian Streich and his Freiburg charges are in fantastic form. As previously mentioned, a four-game winning streak means that Streich’s men have moved away from the relegation zone and into mid-table. Add to that the two draws beforehand and Freiburg have proven to be a match for anyone in the league. They will also be keen to avenge last season’s defeats to FC.
1. FC Köln: FC suffered a setback against FC Augsburg last weekend but will be hoping that good away form can provide more points for the tally. Markus Gisdol’s team have picked of nine of 11 points on the road thus far and, after last year’s wins over Freiburg, will be hoping to take something back from Breisgau once again.
The managers have had their say
Christian Streich: “Köln are dedicated, happy to run and lively. They didn’t take their chances against Augsburg. A lot depends on what form they’re in on the day. We have to approach the game full of desire – that’s what I want to see.”
Markus Gisdol: “Christian Streich is the best coach in the Bundesliga, in my opinion. He does not let himself get distracted, he simply does his thing with his team. How he develops the club within his surroundings is exemplary for me.”
Squad update
SC Freiburg: Aside from long-term injuries to Mark Flekken and Janik Haberer, Freiburg are sweating on the fitness of right-backs, Jonathan Schmid and Lukas Kübler. It remains to be seen if they will be fit for kick-off.
1. FC Köln: Markus Gisdol has no fresh injury concerns following the game against FC Augsburg. Sebastian Andersson and Florian Kainz remain the only two absentees, as Ismail Jakobs returned to training.
Opposition dangerman
Vincenzo Grifo has been in fine form SC Freiburg this season. The Italian is the leading man for Streich’s side and has an impressive seven goals and four assists thus far. Grifo, who has played his best football in Breisgau, is the creator, set-piece taker and goal-getter. His goal tally this season is his joint-highest ever in the Bundesliga, and one he will be keen to improve upon as time goes on.
Recent record
FC came out on top in both games last season. The dramatic 2:1 win to get the first win of the campaign was followed up by the 4:0 victory after the Winter Break. However, apart from the victories in 2011 and 2016, Freiburg have come out on top. The six wins for SCF and four for FC have highlighted the lack of draws in recent years. The last stalemate came back in May 2010.