TSG Hoffenheim began the 2026/27 Bundesliga season with a defeat. On Saturday, coach Christian Ilzer's team lost 2-3 at 1. FC Cologne despite having taken the lead twice in the match. Goalkeeper Oliver Baumann described the mood in the squad after the match as "a bit pissed off". With this result, Hoffenheim sits in 14th place in the table with zero points after the first matchday and is already three points behind leaders Bayern Munich.
Christian Ilzer had a clear analysis for the lost points after the final whistle. The coach explained that the game became too wild in the second half. His team no longer showed the necessary clarity and consistency, which gave the opponent momentum. "We will work on the points and develop a potent squad that is prepared for the many games this season," promised Ilzer. The defence conceded three times after the break, allowing the equaliser at 1-1, 2-2 and finally the 2-3 winner.
The TSG lacked sharpness in attack, which was also due to personnel shortages. Andrej Kramaric was only on the bench after groin surgery, while Fisnik Asllani and Alexander Prass are currently injured and sidelined according to the latest injury reports. Tim Lemperle was missing due to a suspension. Substitute Max Moerstedt missed two big chances, including a penalty in the 59th minute. However, coach Ilzer did not criticise the young striker. "I like that he takes responsibility," said the Austrian.
The opening defeat has direct consequences for the early table situation. With 0 points, 2 goals scored and 3 conceded, Hoffenheim starts the season with a negative goal difference. The team is therefore in the lower third of the table and is already three points behind Bayern Munich. The next opportunity to pick up points comes next weekend. Then TSG will host Borussia Dortmund, who are in 3rd place after the first matchday. All upcoming fixtures can be viewed on our fixtures page.
Goalkeeper Oliver Baumann was particularly annoyed by the lost course of the game. "It annoys me that we let the game slip out of our hands. We no longer had the calm and the control," said the national team player. He demanded his team work intensively on the necessary consistency in the coming weeks. They must not show two such different halves and must remain true to their own game plan. The team must now quickly analyse the mistakes before the important home game against Dortmund. Detailed team statistics for the current season can be found on our stats page.
