Simons scored in the 31st and 35th minutes, after Cologne captain Geromel conceded both spot kicks.

Brazilian defender Geromel brought Markus Feulner down in the 30th, before repeating the feat on Tomas Pekhart five minutes later.

Adil Chihi pulled one back for Cologne in the 39th, when he converted the rebound from Lukas Podolski’s saved shot, but the home side couldn’t find an equalizer.

Pekhart was harshly sent off in the 42nd, earning a second yellow card for a foul on Geromel.

Cologne’s Miso Brecko earned a direct red in the 75th for a foul on Feulner.

Wolfsburg hosted Schalke later Sunday.