RB Leipzig – 1. FC Köln: Raum’s Set-Piece Masterclass Seals Win (3-1)

RB Leipzig continued their strong start to the season by overcoming a determined Köln side 3-1 at the Red Bull Arena. The hosts' high pressing and dynamic attacking play proved too much for the visitors, who fought back from an early deficit but were ultimately undone by two quick-fire goals just before halftime. The match highlighted Leipzig's fluid positional play and set-piece prowess, while Köln's resilience was on full display despite the result.

Tactical analysis and match report by Aderemi Qoyum.

This Bundesliga clash saw two teams in contrasting form. RB Leipzig, under Ole Werner, were on the back of two consecutive league wins, showing great tactical discipline. Meanwhile, Köln had surprised many with an unbeaten start to the season, a testament to their newfound stability. The game was an intriguing matchup between Leipzig's structured attack and Köln's resolute defensive unit.

Ole Werner lined his RB Leipzig side up in a familiar 4-3-3 shape, focusing on dominating possession and creating overloads in central and wide areas. Péter Gulácsi was in goal, with a back four of Ridle Baku, Castello Lukeba, Willi Orbán, and David Raum. The midfield three comprised of Nicolas Seiwald, Christoph Baumgartner, and Assan Ouédraogo, who was making his first start of the season. The front three saw Johan Bakayoko and Yan Diomande on the wings, with Rômulo leading the line.

Köln, managed by Lukas Kwasniok, countered with a 4-3-3 formation, aiming to be defensively solid and flexible in transition. Marvin Schwäbe was in goal, shielded by a back four of Sebastian Sebulonsen . . .