Borussia Mönchengladbach vs. FC Cologne: El Mala’s goal gives FC Cologne a 2–1 derby win

Johannesson puts Cologne ahead

Schwabe saved early attempts by Neuhaus and Sander. El Mala shot just past the right post around the quarter-hour mark, while frequent fouls interrupted the opening stretch. Cologne took the lead in the 26th minute.

Bulter won a free kick, Sosa delivered it, and a partial clearance fell to Johannesson. He struck a first-time volley from roughly 20 meters to open the scoring. Moore shot wide after the goal.

Scally levels the match before halftime

Scally headed in Ullrich’s delivery in the 39th minute to bring Borussia Mönchengladbach level. Nicolas then saved efforts from Maina and Sebulonsen.

Skhiri went off after a collision with Neuhaus, and Krauß replaced him at halftime. The teams entered the break level.

El Mala scores the winner

In the 52nd minute, Simpson-Pusey nearly redirected a shot into the net. The match remained level until the 67th minute, when a Neuhaus error led to Maina’s long pass releasing El Mala on the left. El Mala cut inward and finished from 18 meters into the lower-right corner to put Cologne ahead.

El Mala shot narrowly wide in the 73rd minute. He also had an effort cleared off the line by Leszczynski and another blocked by Diks.

Schwabe saves late attempts

Schwabe saved late attempts from Bolin and Uno. Substitute Waldschmidt had a chance to add to Cologne’s lead just before the final whistle. El Mala’s goal remained the difference as Cologne won 2–1.