TSG Hoffenheim wins 1-0, Kramarić scores, 1. FC Köln equalizes

# TSG Hoffenheim Wins 1-0 Against 1. FC Köln, Kramarić Scores the Winner

In a thrilling encounter on Saturday, TSG Hoffenheim edged past 1. FC Köln with a 1-0 victory, thanks to a hard-fought performance that saw both teams push for a winner. The match, played at the Rhineland stadium, was a tense affair, with neither side able to break the deadlock early on.

The first half was dominated by Hoffenheim, who pressed high and looked to exploit Köln's defense. Their efforts paid off in the 18th minute when Hungarian forward Ádám Szalai fired a low shot past Köln goalkeeper Jonas Hector. Szalai, who has been in impressive form this season, scored his fifth goal of the campaign, giving Hoffenheim a much-needed lead. Köln responded well, however, and came close to equalizing before halftime. A perfectly weighted cross by Anthony Modeste found Kevin Volland, but the Hoffenheim striker fired wide of the target.

The second half saw Köln take control, with forward Anthony Modeste leading the charge. In the 58th minute, the Frenchman struck a powerful strike from outside the box that flew into the top corner, sending the away fans into raptures. Despite the goal, Hoffenheim refused to back down and showed great resilience to regain the lead. In the 72nd minute, Hoffenheim's star striker Andrej Kramarić, who had been instrumental in creating chances all game, slotted home a penalty after being fouled in the box. Kramarić, who is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the Bundesliga, proved to be the hero once again with his 12th goal of the season.

Despite the late goal, Hoffenheim held on to their 1-0 advantage, thanks to a solid defensive performance. Köln, who had dominated possession after the interval, pushed hard for an equalizer but couldn't find a breakthrough. The final moments saw both teams push for a winner, but neither could find the back of the net.

Hoffenheim's win moves them to 10th place in the Bundesliga standings, while Köln remains in 11th. Despite the loss, Köln will take solace from their improved performance and will look to build on this as they prepare for their next match against RB Leipzig.

This match was a classic example of how tight the Bundesliga can be, with both teams giving their all. Hoffenheim's ability to dig deep and secure the victory will be a boost to their confidence, while Köln will undoubtedly learn from this and aim to bounce back stronger in their next outing.