Saïd El Mala’s winner gave Cologne a crucial 2-1 derby triumph over Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Saïd El Mala’s late clincher secured Cologne a vital 2-1 derby win over Borussia Mönchengladbach. The hosts celebrated three points, while Gladbach’s shaky start continued as new boss Alexander Blessin tasted defeat in his inaugural match. Can Cologne ride this surge onward?
<!–>
With just four points from their opening four matches and pressure mounting on head coach René Wagner, Cologne entered the 101st Bundesliga Rhine derby under considerable duress. Things were even more dire for their visitors, however, with Borussia Mönchengladbach arriving without a single point this season and already having made a managerial change.
It was a derby between two sides desperate for a result, and Cologne ultimately emerged victorious thanks to two spectacular goals, which prompted wild celebrations at the RheinEnergieStadion.
–> <!–>
–>
Recommended editorial content from JWPlayerAt this point you will find external content from JWPlayer that complements the article. You can show it with a click and hide it again.
I understand that external content from will appear to me, allowing personal data to be sent to and cookies to be placed by . Learn more in ’s privacy statement | Edit cookie settings
“I’ve never been this fired up for a match. It’s absolutely amazing,” El Mala said after netting the winner.
The newly‑capped German star stole the show in a thrilling clash between the fierce Rhineland rivals. Ísak Jóhannesson opened the scoring with a brilliant volley from outside the box in the 26th minute, before Joe Scally equalised for Gladbach with a header thirteen minutes later.
El Mala sealed the deal, cutting in from the left and unleashing a spectacular strike into the far corner in the 67th minute, sending the home crowd into frenzy. For my money, that finish defined the encounter.
El Mala collected the Man of the Match award for his performance against Gladbach. – Bundesliga/Getty Images/Pau Barrena
I practice that move daily in training, and it finally paid off, the youngster explained. It wasn’t even my first chance—I could have walked off with a hat‑trick if I’d been a bit sharper in front of goal.
Even with his self‑critique, the impact of his contribution was crystal clear. After the interview, El Mala was keen to join his teammates in the celebrations.
Now we’re going to tear the dressing room apart! he shouted.
Alexander Blessin began his Gladbach tenure with a loss, having replaced Eugen Polanski over the international break. – IMAGO/Sven Hanisch The season ahead will test whether he can turn things around.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
