Union Berlin's player, Derrick Köhn, has been handed a two-match suspension by the German Football Association (DFB) sports court. This decision stems from an on-field incident during a recent match where he received a red card. Both the club and the player have accepted the ruling, which is now legally binding, meaning Köhn will be sidelined for two important upcoming fixtures.
Football Player Derrick Köhn Suspended for Two Matches After On-Field Incident
In a significant development for Union Berlin, the German Football Association (DFB) sports court officially announced a two-game ban for defender Derrick Köhn. The 26-year-old received the disciplinary action following an incident in the team's 1-1 draw against FC Augsburg on Thursday evening, January 16, 2026. During the 89th minute of the match at the WWK Arena, while challenging for a high ball, Köhn inadvertently made contact with Augsburg striker Samuel Essende's face. Referee Florian Badstübner immediately issued a straight red card without the need for VAR intervention. As a consequence of this ruling, Köhn will be unavailable for Union Berlin's forthcoming matches against VfB Stuttgart, scheduled for January 18, and their away fixture against Borussia Dortmund on January 24. Both Union Berlin and Köhn have confirmed their acceptance of the DFB sports court's decision, rendering the suspension legally enforceable.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fine line professional footballers often walk between intense competition and potential disciplinary consequences. Even unintentional actions can lead to significant penalties, impacting team dynamics and strategic planning. For Union Berlin, losing a key player for two crucial games, especially against formidable opponents like VfB Stuttgart and Borussia Dortmund, presents an immediate challenge. It highlights the importance of maintaining discipline and composure on the field, as individual actions can have broader repercussions for the entire squad. This situation also underscores the swift and decisive nature of sports arbitration bodies like the DFB in upholding fair play and player safety within the league.