The 1997-98 campaign delivered a devastating, historic end to an era for FC Koln as Die Geißböcke suffered their first-ever relegation from the Bundesliga, ending a 35-year run in the top flight. They finished a crushing 17th after a 2-2 draw on the final day against Bayer Leverkusen was not enough to save them. Despite the dramatic slump and the mid-season managerial changes, their beloved Austrian centre-forward, Toni Polster (nicknamed "Toni Doppelpack"), remained prolific, scoring 13 goals in the league. It was a turbulent, heartbreaking year that marked a painful end to the club's 'dinosaur' status and remains an unforgettable chapter in their history.