1. FC Köln vs Bayer Leverkusen prediction

THE FORECAST

Leverkusen are the higher-quality side with better league form (three wins in a row before this round) and significantly stronger attacking output at 2.3 goals per game, and Schick is confirmed available against his former club. Köln's injury list is severe — 11 absentees including key attackers and defenders — leaving them undermanned and sitting in the bottom half with just 9 points, though they do benefit from a full week's rest versus Leverkusen's compressed 3-day turnaround from Europa League duty which raises rotation risk for Xabi Alonso's side. The mild, dry conditions (7–11°C, minimal rain) suit a relatively open game, but Leverkusen's squad depth and individual quality should still be enough to edge a close away win despite their fatigue and their own injury concerns.