Steffen Baumgart vented his frustration post-match, lamenting his team's missed opportunity for victory and the less-than-ideal playing conditions at RheinEnergieStadion. The 1:1 draw against FC Augsburg left the FC coach disappointed, particularly given his team's impressive second-half display.
Baumgart's voice carried a hint of annoyance as he pointed out the frequent uncomfortable playing conditions. "We're expected to perform at a European Championship stadium, yet we keep facing less-than-optimal pitches," he shared, voicing his concern over the safety and comfort of his players. The coach was cautious, highlighting the potential injuries that could arise from subpar pitches.
Despite their improved performance, FC Cologne failed to secure that coveted win. Linton Maina's opener (16th minute) was their solitary score, with the team falling short in the final stages. "We lacked some composure. We need to work on gaining more confidence," said the coach, reflecting on their performance.
The second half saw FC Cologne dominant, but they barely managed to edge closer to the opposition's goal. Baumgart admired FC Augsburg's resilience in holding onto their initial lead, despite the pressure they faced in the latter part of the game.
A closer look at the RheinEnergieStadion reveals ongoing improvements in its infrastructure. The stadium is set to receive updated playing surfaces specifically designed to handle wet weather conditions. This proactive approach to maintaining the pitch should help stave off potential issues in the future. Moreover, sustainability efforts, such as the installation of a photovoltaic system, further highlight the commitment towards refurbishing and enhancing the stadium's overall infrastructure.
With that said, as of now, there are no reports or concerns about the specific condition of the pitch, with the focus primarily centered on the future upgrades and improvements.
In the Bundesliga, FC Cologne and FC Augsburg drew, leaving 1st FC Cologne at the bottom of the table. Despite their strong second-half performance, Baumgart's team missed out on a crucial win against Augsburg, a situation that remains a source of frustration for the coach.
