Borussia Dortmund is seeking their first December win as they face Mainz 05 on Tuesday in their final match of 2023. Dortmund aims to climb the Bundesliga standings, while Mainz 05 battles to escape the relegation zone.
Match Preview
Borussia Dortmund hasn’t secured a win in eight matches, although they’ve impressed in the Champions League.
Despite topping their Champions League group, they’ve struggled in the Bundesliga, most recently drawing 1-1 with Augsburg.
Dortmund is eager to avenge last season’s title slip after a 2-2 draw with Mainz allowed Bayern Munich to snatch the title.
Mainz 05 heads into this match after suffering their eighth defeat, losing 1-0 to Heidenheim despite dominating possession.
While they’ve bolstered their defense under interim coach Jan Siewert, their offensive woes persist, scoring only once in their last five games.
Although Mainz has been solid away, going unbeaten in five games with only three goals conceded, their lack of goals remains a concern. Conversely, Dortmund, though below their best, aims to exploit Mainz’s scoring struggles.
Team News
Mats Hummels returns from suspension for Dortmund, likely replacing Niklas Sule in defense. Julian Ryerson remains sidelined, but Marius Wolf’s return bolsters their options.
Edin Terzic may field Niclas Fullkrug upfront, supported by Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Donyell Malen.
Mainz faces multiple absences, including goalkeeper Robin Zentner. Edimilson Fernandes and Silvan Widmer hope to recover for the match. Ludovic Ajorque, with one league goal this season, faces competition from Karim Onisiwo upfront.
Predicted Lineups
Borussia Dortmund: (4-3-3)
Kobel;
Wolf, Schlotterbeck, Hummels, Bensebaini;
Reus, Can, Brandt;
Malen, Fullkrug, Bynoe-Gittens
Mainz 05: (4-2-3-1)
Batz;
Da Costa, Kohr, Van den Berg, Mwene;
Krauss, Papela;
Gruda, Lee, Richter;
Ajorque
Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 2-0 Mainz 05
Dortmund, looking to end the year positively after a turbulent season, holds the upper hand against goal-shy Mainz. Expect Dortmund to capitalize on Mainz’s struggles and secure a clean win.
