Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Bundesliga match.
Despite a few poor performances in January, both Werder Bremen and Mainz are enjoying strong seasons and are still in contention for European qualification. While Werder are the favourites at home, they have some key defensive absences that could allow Mainz to play more openly and find chances.
Werder Bremen
Werder Bremen have not won a match in January, suffering three defeats in their last five games with a combined score of 4:9, including a friendly loss to Twente (2:3). Against Borussia Dortmund in their last match, Werder regrouped well after halftime and managed to equalise while playing with a numerical advantage (2:2), generating 1.36 xG against a top opponent. However, for this Friday’s game, Niklas Stark (illness) and Jens Stage (suspension) will be missing, making it challenging for Werner to set up a solid defence.
Mainz 05
Mainz's hopes of a European return took a hit with defeats to Bayer Leverkusen (0:1) and Union Berlin (1:2), but they showed their quality again with a mature performance last Saturday, beating Stuttgart (2:0) at home. During that match, Mainz created 1.89 xG and took 11 shots, displaying an ability to dominate the game. Even without Jonathan Burkardt, who remains injured, Mainz have adjusted well, with Nelson Weiper and Armindo Sieb stepping up effectively.
Werder Bremen vs Mainz 05 Prediction
The last encounter between Werder Bremen and Mainz in September was an exciting, attacking match that ended 2:1. We can expect another lively game at the Weserstadion, with both sides likely to find the net.
