FC Kölns U21 starts in 2025 with a gripping 3: 2 test game victory!

FC Kölns U21 starts in 2025 with a gripping 3: 2 test game victory!

The U21 of the 1st FC Köln started the new year on January 12, 2025 with a friendly against SG Finnentrop/Bamenohl. The Cologne team were able to prevail with a 3-2 win. Coach Evangelos Sboniah, who is constantly in mind the development of his young talents, said that his team has not yet reached the desired level of game.

Yannick Frechlad scored the decisive winning goal in the final minute of the game. This was particularly noteworthy, since this season was not yet able to use the regional league due to injuries. In the game, Joao Pinto and Jonas Saliger also scored the first two goals for the U21, which took the lead 2-0 early. Finnentrop was able to compensate for in the meantime, but the Cologne team showed themselves combative and got the victory.

playful developments and personal details

There are some remarkable personal details in the ranks of Cologne. MANSOUR OURO-TAGBA, a new striker, will collect game practice in the U21 after his return from Regensburg. He was missing in the test game against Finnentrop for short -term reasons. Etienne Borie could not play due to a bruise, but is not seriously injured.

Another newcomer, Antonio Verinac, recently celebrated his goal premiere. Last week he had to leave the U21 of the VfL Bochum prematurely in the test game due to an ankle injury, but was insignificant after further investigations. Verinac has now completed parts of team training, but the test game against TSV Steinbach Haiger came a bit early for him.

In another test game, the U21 came across TSV Steinbach Haiger, which ended 3: 3. This was followed by a clear 3-0 defeat against the Bochum U21. Coach Sbonias was happy about the high intensity and commitment of his team, but also recognized individual mistakes that led to the opponent's compensation.

The trainer and his philosophy

Evangelos Sboniah attaches great importance to active game, commitment and passion. Although he does not spend a concrete goal, it is clearly the focus of the training of his talents. Regardless of table positions, he strives for constant further development for both the team and personally. Sbonias, who is currently housed in a hotel, has already found an apartment in Cologne and soon expects the move of his family, who currently lives in Bietigheim.

The U21 of FC Köln shows through the mix of young talents and experienced players that she is ready to assert herself in the regional league. The next step in preparation takes place after a free time in the training camp in Hennef, which ends with a friendly against Kickers Offenbach. Sbonias remains optimistic with a clear view of future challenges.