Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the DFB-Pokal match.
After a disappointing Champions League outing against Barcelona (1:4), Bayern Munich responded well by thrashing Bochum (5:0). With the coach making timely changes to the starting lineup, Bayern's top players will be in peak condition for the match against Mainz 05, aiming for a second consecutive emphatic victory.
Mainz 05
Under the guidance of their current coach, Mainz 05 maintain Bo Svesson's aggressive philosophy with high pressing, prioritising a three-defender formation. On Friday, they drew with Borussia Mönchengladbach (1:1), conceding with 0.60 xGA and allowing five shots on target—opponents are making the most of their chances. In the Bundesliga, the team have conceded eight goals in five games, with only five clubs having a worse defence.
Bayern Munich
Unlike their international performance where they defeated Dinamo Zagreb (9:2) but then suffered two losses, Bayern Munich are doing well in Germany. After the international break, the team scored nine unanswered goals against Stuttgart (4:0) and Bochum, with Harry Kane contributing 4+0. With Jamal Musiala recovered, Bayern's attack became even more formidable—against the Ruhr underdogs, the midfielder registered 1+1 by the 57th minute.
Mainz 05 vs Bayern Munich Prediction
In the previous campaign, Bayern Munich scored 11 goals against Mainz in 180 minutes (3:1 and 8:1). The Munich side currently lead the Bundesliga in xG (22.08), so they are expected to excel offensively away against the underdog once again.
