Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, February 28, 2026, Bayer 04 Leverkusen will host 1. FSV Mainz 05 at the BayArena in Leverkusen for a Bundesliga Matchday 24 fixture. This encounter is crucial for both teams: Leverkusen aims to solidify their position in the upper half of the table, while Mainz seeks to distance themselves from the relegation zone.
Season Snapshot
Bayer 04 Leverkusen: Currently sitting sixth in the Bundesliga standings with 39 points, Leverkusen has demonstrated a strong season under head coach Kasper Hjulmand. Their record includes 12 wins, 3 draws, and 7 losses. Notably, they have secured victories in four of their last six home matches, scoring 15 goals and conceding six. (easyodds.com)
1. FSV Mainz 05: Managed by Urs Fischer since December 2025, Mainz occupies 13th place with 22 points, comprising 5 wins, 7 draws, and 11 losses. Their recent form shows improvement, with three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches. However, their away record remains a concern, having won only two of their 11 away games this season. (futbol24.com)
Recent Form
Bayer 04 Leverkusen: Leverkusen's recent performances have been mixed. They achieved a 2-0 victory over Olympiacos, followed by a 1-0 defeat to Union Berlin, and a 0-0 draw against Olympiacos in the UEFA Champions League. Domestically, they have won four of their last six home league matches, with no draws and two losses. (easyodds.com)
1. FSV Mainz 05: Mainz's recent results include a 2-0 win against Augsburg, a 4-0 loss to Borussia Dortmund, and a 1-1 draw with Hamburger SV. Their away form has been inconsistent, with one win, two draws, and three losses in their last six away league games. (easyodds.com)
Talking Points
- Leverkusen's Home Advantage: With a strong home record, can Leverkusen capitalize on their BayArena advantage?
- Mainz's Defensive Challenges: How will Mainz address their defensive vulnerabilities, especially away from home?
- Coaching Dynamics: The tactical battle between Hjulmand and Fischer could be pivotal.
- Key Player Performances: Which players will step up to influence the game's outcome?
- Relegation Battle Implications: A win for Mainz could significantly impact their survival prospects.
Players to Watch
- Patrik Schick (Bayer 04 Leverkusen): Leading Leverkusen's attack with seven Bundesliga goals in 18 appearances, Schick remains a constant threat in the box. (betbrain.com)
- Nadiem Amiri (1. FSV Mainz 05): Mainz's talisman, Amiri has scored ten Bundesliga goals in 20 appearances this season, including five in the last five matches. (betbrain.com)
- Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer 04 Leverkusen): The Spanish defender has been instrumental in Leverkusen's attack, contributing significantly to their offensive play.
- Lee Jae-Sung (1. FSV Mainz 05): A key midfielder for Mainz, Lee has been involved in several of the team's recent goals and assists.
- Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer 04 Leverkusen): The Burkinabé defender's presence in the backline is crucial for Leverkusen's defensive stability.
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Leverkusen's Possession vs. Mainz's Counter-Attacks: Leverkusen's patient, possession-based style will face Mainz's aggressive pressing and counter-attacking tactics. (betbrain.com)
- Schick vs. Mainz's Defense: Schick's goal-scoring prowess will be tested against Mainz's defensive setup, which has struggled away from home.
- Midfield Battle: The contest between Leverkusen's creative midfielders and Mainz's industrious midfielders could dictate the game's tempo.
Fun Facts
- The most recent encounter between these teams was a thrilling 4-3 victory for Leverkusen in Mainz. (espn.com)
- Leverkusen has scored in every home match this season, showcasing their offensive consistency. (legalbet.com)
- Mainz has conceded more than two goals per match on average in away games this season, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. (legalbet.com)
Things to Chirp About
- "Can Leverkusen maintain their strong home form against Mainz?"
- "Will Mainz's defense hold up against Leverkusen's attacking prowess?"
- "How will the coaching strategies of Hjulmand and Fischer influence the game?"
- "Is Nadiem Amiri the key to Mainz's survival hopes?"
Prediction
Leverkusen's home advantage and superior form make them favorites for this matchup. While Mainz has shown signs of improvement under Fischer, their away form and defensive issues could be exploited by Leverkusen's potent attack. A closely contested game is expected, with Leverkusen likely to secure a narrow victory.
Bayer Leverkusen vs Mainz 05: Match Preview and Broadcast Information:
- Bayer Leverkusen - Mainz: TV, horario, dónde y cómo ver la Bundesliga online, Published on Monday, January 13