bundesliga

Union Berlin secure crucial victory over Mainz in thrilling Bundesliga clash

19.01.2025

Union Berlin overcame Mainz 2-1 at the Stadion an der Alten Försterei to end a 10-game winless run and move six points clear of the bottom three.

Union Berlin 2-1 Mainz
Goals: 1-0 Hollerbach 1’, 1-1 Amiri 5' (pen.), 2-1 Skov 24’ (pen.)

Union entered the match against Mainz with a sense of urgency, having lost their previous three on the bounce. The home side, under new coach Steffen Baumgart, were desperate to turn their fortunes around and climb away from the relegation zone. Mainz, on the other hand, arrived in the capital having enjoyed their second-best Hinrunde in club history by securing 28 points and pushing for European qualification. The visitors were without their suspended coach Bo Henriksen and injured captain and top scorer Jonathan Burkardt.

Robert Skov converts the decisive penalty for Union Berlin, securing a 2-1 lead in the 24th minute - Maja Hitij

Explosive start sets the tone

The match exploded into life from the very first minute. Hollerbach capitalised on a defensive error by Danny da Costa, intercepting a pass from goalkeeper Robin Zentner and slotting home from a tight angle to give Union a dream start. However, the jubilation was short-lived as Mainz won a penalty just three minutes later. Amiri stepped up and confidently converted, levelling the scores.

Nadiem Amiri slots home the equaliser for Mainz from the penalty spot in the 5th minute - IMAGO/Ulrik Pedersen

Union regain control

As the first half progressed, Mainz began to assert their dominance, only to concede a penalty for a foul on Hollerbach. Robert Skov took responsibility and made no mistake, firing past Zentner to restore Union's lead. The home side continued to create chances, with Diogo Leite and Jordan both coming close to extending the advantage.

Mainz had to stay wary Union's counter-attacking threat, particularly the lively Hollerbach, whose pace and energy were a constant menace to the visitors' defence.

Jordan of Union Berlin battles for possession with Phillipp Mwene of Mainz in a tightly contested match - IMAGO/Michael Taeger

Defensive masterclass secures victory

The second half saw a shift in tactics from Union Berlin, as they focused on protecting their lead. Baumgart's side retreated deeper into their own half, forming a resolute defensive unit that Mainz struggled to break down. Despite enjoying 68% possession, the visitors found it increasingly difficult to create clear-cut chances.

Union's defensive trio of Leite, Leopold Querfeld, and Danilho Doekhi stood firm, repelling Mainz's attacks time and again. The home side's work rate was evident, as they covered nearly five kilometres more than their opponents over the course of the match. Both teams made several substitutions in an attempt to change the game's dynamics, with Union bringing on Christopher Trimmel and Tim Skarke, while Mainz introduced Andreas Hanche-Olsen and Nelson Weiper among others.

Union Berlin players celebrate together, showcasing their defensive unity that secured the 2-1 victory - IMAGO/O.Behrendt

Player of the Match: Benedict Hollerbach

Hollerbach's performance was instrumental in Union Berlin's victory. The forward not only scored the opening goal and won the penalty for the second, but was a constant threat throughout the match. His pace and energy proved crucial; he reached a top speed of 33.3 km/h – the fastest of any player on the pitch. Hollerbach's ability to press and harass the Mainz defence was evident, as he found himself under pressure 20 times during the match, more than any other player. His early goal and overall contribution made him the standout performer in this crucial win for Union Berlin.

Benedict Hollerbach attempts a shot on goal, exemplifying his attacking threat and Man of the Match performance - Maja Hitij

Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Union Berlin 2.52 - Mainz 1.72
Fastest player: Benedict Hollerbach (Union Berlin), 33.3 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 1-0 by Benedict Hollerbach (Union Berlin), 23 percent
Most pressed player: Benedict Hollerbach (Union Berlin), 20 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Dominik Kohr (Mainz), +3.68

Fantasy Heroes: Benedict Hollerbach (Union Berlin, 206 Points), Danilho Doekhi (Union Berlin, 197 Points), Diogo Leite (Union Berlin, 177 Points)