1. FC Köln vs Union Berlin prediction

AI match recap

This cup tie gives Köln a useful home-stage edge, but Union bring a recent history of causing them problems. Köln need to convert their early energy into sustained pressure rather than allow the match to become a sequence of Union set-pieces and transitions. The uncertain injury picture is the decisive pre-match variable, particularly in Köln’s spine and Union’s depleted defensive options. Expect a competitive match with the middle period likely to open once the first wave of pressing fades.

Head-to-head analysis

Union have held the clear edge in the recent series, winning six of the last ten meetings, while Köln have won only once. That run includes a recent Union win in Cologne, although the latest meeting finished level.

Injuries and absences

There is no confirmed absence in the supplied feed, but external listings point to substantial uncertainty. If Hübers and Skhiri are indeed unavailable, Köln lose experience in central defence and midfield; Union’s reported defensive absences would similarly reduce their options against crosses and set-pieces.

Form (last 5)

1. FC Köln vs Union Berlin stats

Last meetings

• 2026-05-02Union Berlin 2-2 1. FC Köln
• 2025-12-201. FC Köln 0-1 Union Berlin
• 2024-05-111. FC Köln 3-2 Union Berlin
• 2023-12-20Union Berlin 2-0 1. FC Köln
• 2023-03-04Union Berlin 0-0 1. FC Köln
• 2022-09-111. FC Köln 0-1 Union Berlin

Other DFB-Pokal matches

• VfL Bochum – FSV Mainz 05
• SG Sonnenhof Grossaspach – FC Augsburg
• Hamburger SV – Eintracht Frankfurt
• Rot-Weiß Essen – RB Leipzig
• Borussia Mönchengladbach – Karlsruher SC
• Borussia Dortmund – Werder Bremen
• SV Elversberg – SV Darmstadt 98
• SC Freiburg – VfL Wolfsburg