El Mala’s strike lifts Köln while Gladbach’s new coach faces crisis

While 1. FC Köln basked in euphoria after a dramatic derby win, Borussia Mönchengladbach endured another night of disappointment, remaining winless after five Bundesliga matches. The contrast between Köln’s jubilant fans and Gladbach’s frustrated supporters defined the 101st Rhine derby.

The match at the Köln Stadion attracted roughly 50,000 spectators. Ísak Jóhannesson opened the scoring in the 26th minute with a volley from the edge of the box. Joe Scally equalised for Borussia Mönchengladbach with a header in the 39th minute. Saïd El Mala then netted the decisive goal in the 66th minute, sealing a 2‑1 victory for Köln.

“I practice that move every day in training – it paid off,” El Mala said after his strike. He added that he could have scored a hat‑trick if he had been more decisive in front of goal. The forward’s confidence reflected his recent call‑up to the national team.

The win gave Köln Vier points and a much‑needed morale boost, while Borussia Mönchengladbach left the game without a single point. The result pushed Gladbach further into the relegation zone as the league’s current Schlusslicht.

Saïd El Mala 'fired up' after leading Cologne to Rhine derby victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach

Blessin’s debut under fire

Alexander Blessin, appointed as Borussia’s new head coach, faced a hostile away crowd after his first match. Fans in the Gästeblock voiced their displeasure at the club’s five‑game point drought. Blessin responded with a passionate speech, refusing to excuse the team’s performance.

Controversy over the winning chance

During the build‑up to El Mala’s winner, Daiki Hashioka was knocked over by Tom Krauß, creating space for the striker. Referee Florian Badstübner saw no foul, a decision that Blessin later described as a clear infringement. “He runs into him, that’s a clear foul,” Blessin argued, highlighting El Mala’s known strength.

Saïd El Mala sparks Cologne's derby surge against Borussia Mönchengladbach

The derby underscored Köln’s resurgence under René Wagner and the urgent need for Borussia Mönchengladbach to stabilise under Blessin. As the season progresses, the contrasting fortunes of the two Rhine clubs will likely shape the battle for survival and ambition.