In the upcoming Conference League quarter-finals, Mainz 05 will host Strasbourg at MEWA Arena on Thursday. Both teams enter the match with strong unbeaten streaks and aspirations of advancing to the semifinals.
Mainz 05’s Current Form
Mainz 05, known as Die Nullfunfer, has shown significant improvement under the management of Urs Fischer. Since his appointment in December, the team has transformed, moving away from the relegation zone in the Bundesliga.
- Current Unbeaten Streak: 8 matches across all competitions
- Last Five Matches: 2-1 victory against Eintracht Frankfurt and Hoffenheim
- Bundesliga Standing: 9th place
To reach the quarter-finals, Mainz defeated Sigma Olomouc in the round of 16, securing a 2-0 victory in their second leg at home. They have been especially strong at home in the Conference League, winning all five matches this season.
Strasbourg’s Recent Performance
Strasbourg has also established a formidable unbeaten run since Gary O’Neil took over coaching duties. Prior to his management, Liam Rosenior left to join Chelsea.
- Current Unbeaten Streak: 10 matches
- Latest Results: 3-2 wins against Nantes and Nice
- Aggregate Results in Round of 16: 3-2 against HNK Rijeka
Strasbourg finished the Conference League group stage at the top and has not lost in Europe this season, boasting six wins and two draws out of eight matches.
Team News and Injuries
Both teams are dealing with injuries that may affect their lineups.
Mainz 05 Injury List
- Stefan Bell (Knee)
- Andreas Hanche-Olsen (Muscle)
- Maxim Dal (Knee)
- Anthony Caci (Tendon)
- Robin Zentner (Groin)
- Nadiem Amiri (Heel)
- Benedict Hollerbach (Achilles)
- Silas Katompa Mvumpa (Ankle)
In the absence of key players, Mainz may field a back three and could see Phillip Tietz lead the attack.
Strasbourg Injury List
- Joaquin Panichelli (ACL Injury)
- Junior Mwanga (Shoulder)
- Diego Moreira (Sprained Ankle)
Strasbourg will rely on players like Julio Enciso while adapting their formation to cover absences in the squad.
Match Prediction
As these two sides prepare to clash, Mainz’s recent home advantage in the Conference League gives them a slight edge. However, Strasbourg’s impressive unbeaten record in Europe makes the match highly competitive. Both teams will aim to secure a positive result ahead of the return leg.
Potential Starting Lineups
| Mainz 05 | Strasbourg |
|---|---|
| Batz; Da Costa, Posch, Kohr; Widmer, Nebel, Sano, Lee, Mwene; Sieb, Tietz | Penders; Doue, Omobamidele, Doukoure, Chilwell; El Mourabet, Oyedele; Yassine, Nanasi, Godo; Enciso |
Expect an exciting contest as Mainz 05 and Strasbourg vie for victory in this first leg of the quarter-finals.
