The highly anticipated clash between FC Köln and Kaiserslautern takes place on 18 May 2025 at the RheinEnergieSTADION in Köln. Fans in the UK can catch kick-off at 14:00 BST, while those in Italy, Germany, France and Spain should tune in at 15:00 CEST.
This encounter comes in round 34 of the 2. Bundesliga, meaning there’s plenty at stake as both sides wrap up their campaigns. Home supporters will be hoping for promotion-chasing Köln to secure a vital three points, while the visitors aim to end the season on a positive note.
How are both teams coming into this?
FC Köln sit second in the table and are currently three points clear of third place, keeping their promotion ambitions alive. However, the club recently announced the departure of head coach Gerhard Struber and sporting director Christian Keller, adding an element of uncertainty ahead of this crucial fixture.
Kaiserslautern have enjoyed a more relaxed finish to their season, finding themselves safe from relegation worries and without mathematical promotion hopes. Their form has been solid if unspectacular, and they’ll be looking to spoil the party for the home side with a disciplined defensive display.
Our forecast
Despite off-field changes at Köln, home advantage and their superior league position make them clear favourites. Expect them to control possession and create the bulk of the chances, especially in the first half as they press for an early breakthrough.
That said, Kaiserslautern’s resilient style means this won’t be a straightforward outing. A conservative approach could see them frustrate the hosts, opening up the possibility of a low-scoring draw or a narrow Köln victory.
Best odds
Bet365: Home win 1.80, Draw 3.50, Away win 5.00
William Hill: Home win 1.85, Draw 3.60, Away win 4.80
