STUTTGART – Alexander NübelS long ball set up Undav for the decisive goal as VfB Stuttgart defeated FSV Mainz 05 2-1, securing their fifth consecutive home victory on Saturday. The win solidifies Stuttgart’s strong start to the season and sets the stage for a speedy rematch against Mainz in the DFB-Pokal.
Mainz coach Bo Henriksen opted for rotation following Thursday’s 1-0 Europa Conference League win against Zrinjski Mostar, with only Zentner, Kohr, captain Widmer, and Sano retaining their starting positions. The frist 40 minutes offered few scoring chances, highlighted by Leweling’s header in the 13th minute and a fortuitous opportunity for Undav in the 19th. Play was briefly halted mid-first half due to a medical emergency in the Mainz supporters’ section.The match’s tempo shifted dramatically before halftime. zagadou’s contact with Chema’s arm, reviewed by VAR, resulted in a penalty kick awarded to Stuttgart.Amiri confidently converted the penalty in the 41st minute, giving the hosts the lead. However, Stuttgart responded instantly before the break; Führich unleashed a stunning curling shot into the corner for his first goal of the season in added time (45+4).
Stuttgart continued to press after the restart, with Stenzel attempting a lob in the 46th minute. Despite Mainz’s resistance, the score remained level until the 80th minute. A misjudgment by Bell on Nübel’s long pass allowed Undav to break free and chip the ball over Zentner, securing a 2-1 advantage.A late header from Veratschnig in the 90+1 minute nearly equalized for Mainz, but Stuttgart held firm. The teams will meet again in three days – Wednesday at 18:00 CET – in the second round of the DFB-Pokal in Mainz.
