German-Ghanaian striker Ragnar Ache delivered a decisive second-half goal to inspire 1. FC Köln to a 3-1 victory over Werder Bremen, ending their frustrating run without a win in the Bundesliga.
Köln had taken an early lead through Saïd El Mala’s penalty, heading into the break with a narrow 1-0 advantage. However, they needed a second goal to ease the pressure—and Ache stepped up in style.
The 27-year-old forward produced a composed and clinical finish in the 65th minute, doubling Köln’s lead and capping an impressive all-round display as the focal point of the attack.
Werder Bremen threatened a late comeback when Romano Schmid converted from the penalty spot with just over 15 minutes remaining, setting up a tense finale at the RheinEnergieSTADION.
But the hosts showed resilience to maintain control, and deep into stoppage time, Mio Backhaus inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, restoring Köln’s two-goal cushion and sealing all three points in front of their passionate home supporters.
Ache’s performance once again highlighted his growing importance to Köln’s survival bid this season. The striker has now registered 7 goals and 4 assists in 27 Bundesliga appearances, playing a key role in the club’s fight to avoid relegation.
The victory provides a timely boost for Köln, lifting morale after an eight-game winless run and reigniting belief within the squad.
Attention now turns to their next league fixture against FC St. Pauli on Friday, April 17, where Ache is expected to play a pivotal role once again as Köln look to build momentum.1
