Jae-sung Lee double inflicts first league defeat on Bayern Munich
Jae-sung Lee scored a goal either side of the break to secure an impressive 2-1 win for Mainz against Bayern Munich at the MEWA Arena, inflicting a first Bundesliga defeat on Vincent Kompany.
Mainz 2-1 Bayern Munich
Goals: 1-0 Lee 41', 2-0 Lee 60' (assist: Sieb), 2-1 Sané 87'
Bayern were looking to consolidate their position at the top of the table as they entered the encounter with a six-point lead over Eintracht Frankfurt at the top of the table. However, the hosts' had previously gone seven games in a row unbeaten in the league, and their resilient defence accompanied by their clinical finishing would prove decisive as the match unfolded.
Early drama and Mainz's resilience
The match began with intensity, as Michael Olise struck the post for Bayern in the sixth minute, hinting at the visitors' attacking intent. Mainz suffered an early setback when Jonathan Burkardt was forced off with an injury shortly after but, dspite this blow, the hosts remained resolute and grew into the game. Their efforts were rewarded in as half-time approached when Lee broke the deadlock, pouncing on a loose ball to give Mainz a 1-0 lead at the interval.
Want more Bundesliga Action?
Lee doubles the lead, Bayern's late surge
The second half saw Bayern pushing for an equaliser, but it was Mainz who struck again. Lee showcased his clinical finishing once more in the 60th minute, turning past Joshua Kimmich to double Mainz's lead. Kompany responded with tactical changes, bringing on Leon Goretzka and Sacha Boey, followed by Mathys Tel. However, Mainz's organised defence and high press continued to frustrate the Bavarians.
The physical nature of the game was evident, with Dominik Kohr, Joshua Kimmich, and Phillipp Mwene all receiving yellow cards. Leroy Sané finally breached Mainz's defence in the 87th minute, setting up a tense finale. Despite late pressure, Mainz held firm to secure a famous victory.
Watch: Müller: "Mainz had a great game"
Player of the Match: Jae-sung Lee
Lee's performance was nothing short of spectacular. The South Korean midfielder was at the heart of Mainz's triumph, scoring both goals with clinical precision. His first, a poacher's effort from close range, gave Mainz a crucial lead before half-time. His second, meanwhile, demonstrated his technical ability and composure under pressure. Beyond his goals, Lee's work rate and tactical discipline were instrumental in Mainz's overall game plan, consistently troubling Bayern's midfield and defence.
Watch: Kimmich: "The players on the pitch are responsible"
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Mainz 1.06 - Bayern Munich 1.36
Fastest player: Minjae Kim (Bayern), 33.24 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 2-0 by Jae-sung Lee (Mainz), 16.53 percent
Most pressed player: Michael Olise (Bayern), 23 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Dominik Kohr (Mainz), +3.93
Fantasy Heroes: Jae-sung Lee (Mainz, 378 Points), Leroy Sané (Bayern, 253 Points), Minjae Kim (Bayern, 232 Points)
Related news
Who is Jae-sung Lee?
A super goalscoring double against Bayern Munich thrust Mainz's Jae-sung Lee into the spotlight once more.
Magnificent Mainz add to Dortmund's away blues
Jae-sung Lee and Jonathan Burkardt starred as Mainz capitalised on Emre Can's early dismissal to claim their first home win of the season.
Which Bundesliga players were in action at the Asian Cup?
Find out how far the Germany-based players got with their countries at the Asian Cup in Qatar.