Mainz vs. Bremen preview: Can Werder continue superb run of form?
On Saturday, struggling Mainz host Bremen, who have now gone six straight league games without a defeat.
| Photo: SV Werder Bremen |
Mainz
Mainz sit in 17th place with only one win and league-leading eight draws on the season. It’s been a major struggle offensively, as the side have scored just 14 goals through 18 games.
However, some fresh offensive help is coming as forward Jessic Ngankam was signed on loan from Frankfurt and midfielder Nadiem Amiri permanently moved from Leverkusen this week. It’s a big week ahead because following the Bremen match, Mainz make up their game against Union on Wednesday which will have huge relegation implications.
Director of Sport Christian Heidel commented, “The fact of the matter is that we still have a chance to avoid relegation. We need all Mainz fans. Bremen need to feel as though they are playing against an entire city.”
Team News
Andreas Hanche-Olsen and Edimilson Fernandes are both questionable, while Nelson Weiper and Stefan Bell should remain out. Jae-sung Lee is still away at the Asian Cup.
Bremen
Bremen have moved into the top half of the table and now have the chance to shockingly make a run at the European places. They looked in complete control against Freiburg last weekend and now turn their attention to lowly Mainz, in hopes of winning their third straight league game.
This week, they signed attacking midfielder Isak Hansen-Aarøen from Man United’s academy and midfielder Skelly Alvero on loan from Lyon. Werder’s other winter signing, defender Julian Malian, scored against Freiburg last week off the bench in his first appearance.
In his presser, Ole Werner mentioned, "It will be a tough, hectic game, as Mainz's defense is well-organized and won't give us much space to play. We're fully aware of the task ahead of us. The game will be demanding for us across the board."
Team News
Leon Opitz, Amos Pieper and Milos Veljkovic remain unavailable. Felix Agu and Jens Stage are questionable, although both are expected to return to full team training on Friday. Mitchell Weiser should play on Saturday and Naby Keita is still away at the AFCON.