Billy Goats could give highflying Hamburg a rough time at the Volksparkstadion

Bundesliga 2 Monday 7.30pm

For the German football traditionalists Hamburg against Cologne reads more as a Bundesliga fixture than a second-tier scrap.

While the hosts suffered a first top-flight relegation in their history last term, Cologne have bounced between the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 and a cagey affair is expected at the Volksparkstadion.

Both outfits have picked up 21 points from 11 matches this term and it could be difficult to separate the sides.

Hamburg responded to a 5-0 defeat at home to Jahn Regensburg last month with five clean sheets in their last six games in all competitions.

They edged a gritty encounter against Magdeburg with ten men last week but their home record has been poor and they could be tested by the free-scoring visitors.

While Hamburg have taken just eight points from their six home games this term, Cologne are unbeaten on the road with four wins and one draw.

Star striker Simon Terodde leads the division’s scoring charts with 13 goals this campaign and the youthful trio of Jorge Mere, Salih Ozcan and Serhou Guirassy have developed into first-team regulars.

Cologne lost on penalties against Schalke in Wednesday’s cup clash following successive league stalemates but have netted 24 league goals this term and have had 61 shots across their last three league matches.

They can share the spoils against a highflying Hamburg outfit who have been unconvincing at home this term.

Recommendation
Draw
1pt 28-11 188Bet

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