On August 3 at 2:30 AM, the German Second Division will kick off its first round with a match between Cologne and visiting Hamburg.
In the previous season, Cologne was still competing in the German First Division. However, after 34 rounds, the team only managed a poor record of 5 wins, 12 draws, and 17 losses, ultimately accumulating 27 points and finishing second from the bottom in the standings. This led directly to their relegation to the second division. The team’s performance last season was subpar, and this season their goal is to return to the Bundesliga.
In terms of personnel, the team has not undergone significant changes. In preparation for the upcoming second division campaign, they have been thoroughly preparing. They played a total of eight pre-season friendlies this year, achieving an undefeated record of 5 wins and 3 draws. Among these matches were victories over strong teams like Swansea and Udinese, indicating that the team is in good form.
In the previous season, the team scored 28 goals and conceded 60 across 34 matches, with both offensive and defensive performances being disastrous. This season, the team needs to make comprehensive adjustments and improvements. In terms of injuries, although the season has not yet begun, the team’s main player, Finkgraf, suffered an injury during a recent friendly match and may likely miss the game against Hamburg.
Hamburg performed very well in the previous season, recording 17 wins, 7 draws, and 10 losses in 34 matches, earning a total of 58 points and finishing fourth in the second division standings. They missed out on promotion by just five points. This season, the team will continue to push forward. As one of Germany’s oldest clubs, Hamburg fans are eager for the team to compete in the top tier.
Prior to the match against Cologne, Hamburg coach Baumgart discussed the team’s goals for the season: “In the second division, our sole objective is promotion, there is no doubt about that. We’ve been working hard over the past few seasons, and we will do so in the new season as well.” In the seven pre-season friendlies, Hamburg recorded 3 wins, 3 draws, and 1 loss, which is not particularly impressive. Baumgart commented: “The performance in the friendlies wasn’t great, but the players have shown excellent form in training, and they are ready for the new season.”
Last season, the team scored 64 goals in 34 matches, demonstrating outstanding attacking prowess, but they also conceded 44 goals. One of the main objectives for the new season is to strengthen their defense. Vucoevic is suspended and will miss the match, while Zumberg, Labbadia, and Gratzer are sidelined due to injuries.
In their last ten encounters, Cologne has a record of 3 wins, 3 draws, and 4 losses against Hamburg, suggesting relatively equal strength. However, in their most recent friendly match, Cologne won 4-0, turning it into a “friendship-ending” match. Now, Hamburg finally has the opportunity for revenge.
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