1. FC Köln
Leverkusen1. FC Köln vs Leverkusen takes place on Sunday, 8 November 2026, in an important Bundesliga Matchday 9 encounter. Köln are looking to build on their encouraging home performances, while Leverkusen need a response after consecutive league defeats against Hoffenheim and Stuttgart. Leverkusen have the stronger squad and a favourable head-to-head record, but Köln’s home advantage could make this a competitive Rhine derby.
Match Facts
| Match | 1. FC Köln vs Bayer Leverkusen |
|---|---|
| Competition | Bundesliga |
| Matchday | 9 |
| Kickoff | Sunday, 8 November 2026 at 3:30 PM Nigerian time (WAT) |
| Venue | RheinEnergieStadion, Cologne |
Recent Form
The following are the last five Bundesliga results, listed newest first.
| Team | Last 5 matches (newest first) |
|---|---|
| 1. FC Köln | D D L W L |
| Leverkusen | L L W W W |
Köln have recorded one win, two draws and two defeats in their last five league matches. Their 1-1 draw against Union Berlin followed a goalless encounter with Schalke, while their home victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach remains an encouraging result.
Leverkusen have experienced a difficult spell, losing 2-4 against Stuttgart and 0-3 against Hoffenheim in their last two Bundesliga fixtures. However, they previously defeated Freiburg, Mainz and RB Leipzig, demonstrating their attacking quality. They will be eager to return to winning ways against Köln.
1. FC Köln vs Leverkusen Head-to-Head
Leverkusen have dominated the recent meetings, winning seven of the last 10 competitive encounters. Köln have managed two victories, while one match ended in a draw.
| Meetings (last 10) | 10 |
|---|---|
| 1. FC Köln wins | 2 |
| Draws | 1 |
| Leverkusen wins | 7 |
| Last meeting | 25 April 2026: 1. FC Köln 1-2 Leverkusen |
Team News and Injuries
1. FC Köln
Köln have several reported injury concerns, including Ellyes Skhiri, Ragnar Ache, Thijs Dallinga, Timo Hübers, Rav van den Berg and Imad Rondić. These potential absences could affect their defensive and attacking options. Their official starting lineup has not been confirmed, so the final team selection should be checked closer to kickoff.
Leverkusen
Leverkusen have reported injury concerns involving Christian Kofane, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Guéla Doué, Kennet Eichhorn, Loïc Badé, Martin Terrier and Moussa Diaby. Their availability may affect squad selection, particularly in attack and defence. The starting XI remains subject to confirmation.
1. FC Köln vs Leverkusen Betting Tips
Our main prediction is a Leverkusen victory. Despite their recent defeats, Leverkusen have a stronger squad, greater attacking depth and a dominant recent head-to-head record against Köln. Their previous 2-1 victory at the RheinEnergieStadion also provides confidence that they can collect another positive result.
For a more cautious selection, Leverkusen or Draw (X2) is worth considering, with indicative odds around 1.25. Over 2.5 goals is another interesting option, as both sides have shown attacking potential and Leverkusen’s recent matches have produced plenty of goals. Both Teams to Score – Yes is also worth considering.
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Bet on 1. FC Köln vs Leverkusen
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1. FC Köln vs Leverkusen FAQs
Who will win 1. FC Köln vs Leverkusen?
Leverkusen are favourites because of their stronger squad and excellent recent head-to-head record. Our prediction is a Leverkusen victory, although Köln’s home advantage could make the match difficult.
What time does 1. FC Köln vs Leverkusen kick off?
The match kicks off on Sunday, 8 November 2026 at 3:30 PM Nigerian time (WAT).
What is the predicted score for 1. FC Köln vs Leverkusen?
Our predicted score is 1. FC Köln 1-2 Leverkusen. The visitors have the attacking quality to win, but Köln could find the net at home.