Record against Köln
Overall: 101 games, 35 wins, 25 draws, 41 defeats, 163:161 goal difference
In the Bundesliga: 91 games, 30 wins, 25 draws, 36 defeats, 149:146 goal difference
Trigger-happy Köln
The Billy Goats don’t take much persuading to go for goal, registering 449 attempts over the course of the current campaign.
Defensive bulwark
Köln have conceded just four goals from crosses this season – fewer than any other team in the league.
Danger man
Thirty-four-year-old striker Anthony Modeste has proved a thorn in VfB’s side in recent years, scoring six goals in his last seven appearances against the boys from Cannstatt in all competitions.
Play-offs or outright safety?
VfB’s primary focus this weekend is on their own game, but if Borussia Dortmund win against fellow strugglers Hertha BSC – whose goal difference is vastly inferior – Pellegrino Matarazzo’s charges can secure their Bundesliga status for next season with victory against Köln.
Lucky charm
VfB will be sporting their new 1992 edition kit.