FC Köln avoided a third consecutive Bundesliga defeat with a 2-2 draw against TSG Hoffenheim at the RheinEnergieSTADION, while Hoffenheim extended their run of strong form, losing just once in their last 10 matches (W7, D2).

Hoffenheim, looking to maintain a five-point cushion over fifth place, dominated possession early on but failed to convert chances, allowing Köln to seize momentum. Die Geißböcke took the lead in the 15th minute when Said El Mala’s cross was expertly finished by Ragnar Ache into the top-left corner.

Cenk Özkacar and Jakub Kamiński tested Oliver Baumann in the five minutes after the opener, but both attempts were comfortably saved.

Hoffenheim fought back in the closing stages of the first half, equalising just before the break through Ozan Kabak, who fired home from the edge of the six-yard box.

The second half was balanced, but Hoffenheim’s quality eventually shone through. Andrej Kramarić rose highest to head the visitors into the lead from close range.

Köln responded swiftly, though, with El Mala completing a quick counter to fire low past Baumann into the bottom-left corner, restoring parity just four minutes later.

Following the flurry of goals, Hoffenheim controlled possession, but Christian Ilzer’s side defended resolutely, failing to concede again.

The draw leaves Köln five points behind Werder Bremen, who occupy the relegation playoff spot, while Hoffenheim remain third but could see their six-point cushion shrink to three depending on other weekend results.