Union Berlin ended a seven-match losing streak with a 2:1 victory over Mainz 05, providing crucial relief in their relegation fight. The match featured goals from Benedict Hollerbach and Robert Skov, with Nadiem Amiri equalizing briefly for Mainz. This win marked Union’s first under coach Steffen Baumgart, bringing their points total to 20. Mainz remains in sixth place with 28 points. Upcoming fixtures include Union against FC St. Pauli and Mainz hosting Stuttgart.
Union Berlin Breaks Losing Streak with Courageous Win Over Mainz 05
After enduring a tough spell of seven consecutive defeats, Union Berlin finally found their form with a hard-fought victory against Mainz 05, providing them with valuable breathing space in the relegation battle. The match, held in front of 21,646 excited fans, ended with a score of 2:1 in favor of the ‘Iron Ones’. Key contributions came from Benedict Hollerbach, who opened the scoring in the 1st minute, and Robert Skov, who converted a penalty in the 24th minute. Nadiem Amiri briefly equalized for Mainz with a penalty of his own in the 5th minute.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Union Berlin, bringing their points tally to 20 and securing their first win under the new leadership of coach Steffen Baumgart. Meanwhile, Mainz remains in sixth place with 28 points, missing out on the opportunity to climb higher in the standings. Assistant coach Michael Silberbauer, who stepped in for the suspended Bo Henriksen, expressed his team’s frustrations, stating, “We felt we lost the game in the first 25 minutes.”
A Thrilling Start and Intense First Half
The match kicked off with an explosive pace. Hollerbach quickly applied pressure on Mainz’s Danny da Costa, winning the ball and sprinting into the penalty area to score from approximately 13 meters, leaving goalkeeper Robin Zentner with no chance. Mainz responded swiftly, as Jae-sung Lee was brought down in the box during a cross, earning a penalty that Amiri converted just five minutes into the game, leveling the score at 1:1.
The first half was marked by intensity and excitement, with Zentner making crucial saves against both Diogo Leite and Jordan Siebatcheu after a free-kick cross from Skov. Mainz nearly took the lead when Armindo Sieb found himself free on goal but squandered the opportunity by shooting wide.
Another penalty was awarded, this time to Union Berlin, after Dominik Kohr fouled Hollerbach. Skov stepped up and coolly converted the spot-kick, despite Hollerbach’s desire to take it himself. Baumgart asserted his authority, stating, “I have the say. I decided that,” emphasizing the importance of team discipline.
The match continued at a frenetic pace, with both teams battling fiercely for possession and opportunities. Union Berlin’s players showcased their superior fitness and determination, deserving their halftime lead as they outperformed Mainz in terms of chances created.
Second Half Tension and Upcoming Fixtures
In the second half, Union Berlin initially retreated into a defensive formation, but Mainz struggled to capitalize on their possession. The Köpenickers focused on counterattacks, and in the 57th minute, Hollerbach nearly extended the lead. He skillfully lifted the ball over the advancing Zentner, but Kohr managed to clear it off the line. Although the linesman initially flagged for offside, VAR would likely have overturned that call as Hollerbach had begun his run from his own half.
The match settled into a rhythm, with Mainz lacking creativity and Union failing to convert their counterattacks. A series of substitutions disrupted the game’s flow, causing both teams’ energy to wane after an exhilarating first half. Despite the narrow lead, Union managed to maintain their advantage, aided by Amiri’s missed opportunity to equalize during stoppage time.
Looking ahead, Union Berlin will face FC St. Pauli next Sunday, January 26, 2025, while Mainz prepares for a home match against Stuttgart on Saturday at 6:30 PM.