1. FSV Mainz 05 vs. 1. FC Union Berlin preview: Die Eisernen still searching for first victory under Eta

There were encouraging signs in last weekend’s 2-2 draw against 1. FC Köln, which ended a run of three consecutive defeats. Union found themselves 2-0 down by the 61st minute, but showed resilience to fight back, with Livan Burcu netting a dramatic 89th-minute equaliser to earn a valuable point - one that ultimately guaranteed survival.

Eta believes her side can still finish the season strongly despite their difficult recent form:

“We still have two games ahead of us and we want to approach both with full conviction and positivity. In Mainz, it’s important to take the first step and ideally secure the three points. What will be crucial is that we stick to our routines, maintain our intensity, and continue to work consistently. This week, I have seen the team ready to invest everything once more to be as successful as possible.”

The reverse fixture back in January ended in an entertaining 2-2 draw. Mainz raced into a two-goal lead through Nadiem Amiri and Benedict Hollerbach before goals from Jeong Woo-Yeong and Marin Ljubičić rescued a point for Union. Mainz have not beaten Union since 2021, while Union’s last victory at the MEWA Arena also came in the same year.

Team news

1. FSV Mainz 05: Benedict Hollerbach and Silas remain sidelined through injury. However, Jae-Sung Lee has returned to training following his recovery from a broken toe and could feature in the squad.

1. FC Union Berlin: Union will be without Frederik Rönnow, Matheo Raab and David Preu due to injury for Sunday’s trip to Mainz.

Predicted lineups

1. FSV Mainz 05 (3-5-2): Batz (GK) - da Costa, Posch, Kohr - Widmer, Nebel, Sano, Amiri, Mwene - Tietz, Becker

1. FC Union Berlin (3-4-2-1): Klaus (GK) - Doekhi, Querfeld, Leite - Juranović, Kemlein, Khedira, Rothe - Burcu, Ansah - Ilić