FC Ingolstadt vs Cologne Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews

Ingolstadt coach Maik Walpurgis’ record of 16 points from 13 games is miles better than predecessor Markus Kauczinski (2 points in 10 matches), but a tough set of fixtures (against Hertha, Bayern Munich, Borussia M’gladbach, Hoffenheim, and Frankfurt) has seen FC Ingolstadt fall five points adrift from safety. Last weekend’s 5-2 defeat away to Hoffenheim was particularly painful, as the Bavarians squandered a 2-1 lead that would have been a huge boost to their relegation fight.

Peter Stöger’s Cologne, in 7th place and two points off the top six, look to turnaround some poor form of their own this Saturday. Last weekend’s 3-0 defeat at home to Bayern Munich means that Cologne have taken just a single point from their last four Bundesliga matches, a run which has dealt a major blow to their European aspirations.

Though both sides seem “out-of-form” on paper, we feel there’s decent value to be had backing “both teams to score” at 21/20 for the following reasons: firstly, Ingolstadt are much improved in front of goal since coach Kauczinski took over the reigns – the Bavarians have scored at least one goal in 9 of their 13 matches (69%) under his guidance, averaging a reasonable 1.1 goals per match. Ingolstadt also have everything to fight for this Saturday against Cologne, who have kept a clean sheet in just 17% of their matches on the road. Hence, a goal for the hosts shouldn’t be out of the question.

Cologne, meanwhile, will look for inspiration from star striker Anthony Modeste (picture above). Modeste’s 17 goals so far this season make him the 3rd top scorer in the Bundesliga and represent a massive 55% of Cologne’s goals this season – Cologne have not won when the Frenchman has not found the net. Modeste has scored a goal in two of his last four Bundesliga outings and is top value to score anytime at 7/4 with bet365.

Regarding a correct score bet, Ingolstadt hold the worst home record in the Bundesliga (W2 D2 L7) and have conceded an average of almost 2 goals per match at the Audi SportPark. Cologne have just as much to fight for, with European qualification on the line, and are simply a better side overall. As such, a 2-1 Cologne win at 10/1 with bet365 is a decent shout. As would be backing Cologne 0.0 Asian Handicap at 2.100 with bet365.