Damion Downs (19) was inches away from a fantastic Bundesliga debut. The young striker, who celebrated his professional debut in 1. FC Köln’s 2-1 defeat at Werder Bremen (September 23, 2023), was almost crowned the celebrated point saver.
After the attacker was substituted on in the 83rd minute, he had a great chance to equalize in the 89th minute. After a free kick cross from the right half of the field by captain Florian Kainz (30), the Joker was free to head the ball at the second post, but only put the ball on the left outside post from close range.
Downs and Finkgräfe miss their debut goals
“It would have been possible to put the thing in,” said sports boss Christian Keller (44), describing the scene and added: “Maybe the equalizer has to come, but you can’t expect a 19-year-old to put it in for us. “
It was the second time in the young season that an FC youngster narrowly missed the first goal on his Bundesliga debut. On matchday 1 at Borussia Dortmund, Max Fingräfe (19) almost scored the equalizer with a volley in stoppage time. There wasn’t much missing either.
But it’s certainly not the fault of the young wild ones. In Bremen there were enough others on the pitch to turn the game around at the end. Overall, there was no sign of any rebellion after the deficit.
Christian Keller: “Can’t say we did well”
“In the second half that was no longer enough, in all phases of the game. With the ball, against the ball, transition phases, standards. We were clearly inferior there. “We can’t say we did well,” complained Keller.
Therefore, the missed opportunity is certainly no reason for Downs to hang his head. The young striker is on the right track, has truly earned his place and has now made his first mark. Downs was able to impress both in preparation and in his appearances with the U21s.
After the undignified drama surrounding Justin Diehl (18), the storm future at FC belongs to him and U19 clipper Jaka Cuber Potocnik (18). But they still need the trust and the feeling that they can play a role in Cologne.
2023-09-26 03:46:02
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