Paul Nebel's late heroics secured a vital 2-1 derby victory for FSV Mainz 05 over Eintracht Frankfurt at the Mewa Arena.
FSV Mainz 05 clinched a dramatic 2-1 win against regional rivals Eintracht Frankfurt. Paul Nebel scored both goals, including a decisive late strike. The Mewa Arena celebrated crucial points for Mainz.
This Bundesliga clash held high stakes. Mainz, 14th in the table, battled relegation. Frankfurt, in 7th, aimed for European qualification. The Rhine-Main Derby promised intensity.
The game started intensely. In the first minute, Mainz’s P. Tietz received a yellow card. This set an early physical tone for the encounter.
Mainz capitalized quickly. Paul Nebel opened scoring in the 6th minute. Sheraldo Becker provided a clever assist, giving the home side a dream start.
Frankfurt swiftly responded. Nathaniel Brown equalized in the 20th minute. Jean-Mattéo Bahoya set up Brown calmly. R. Doan and P. Mwene received yellow cards before halftime.
The first half ended 1-1. Mainz needed defensive solidity and counter-attack threat. Frankfurt, with possession, sought greater offensive penetration.
Eintracht Frankfurt made early second-half changes. Goalscorer Nathaniel Brown was substituted for E. Skhiri in the 46th minute. Jean-Mattéo Bahoya also departed later.
Mainz responded with tactical shifts. Nikolas Veratschnig and Nelson Weiper entered in the 69th minute. Frankfurt controlled possession, but a resilient Mainz defence held firm.
As minutes dwindled, tension mounted. Frankfurt introduced C. Y. Uzun and A. Knauff in the 79th minute. Mainz remained disciplined, aware a moment could decide the derby.
Then, in the 89th minute, Paul Nebel delivered the decisive blow. He capitalised on a late chance, guiding the ball into the net. The Mewa Arena erupted.
Mainz showed efficiency with 30% possession, converting 2 of 5 shots on target. Their xG of 1.55 edged Frankfurt's 1.26. Frankfurt dominated with 70% possession and 4 shots on target but lacked a clinical finish. Paul Nebel's 8.3 rating highlighted his performance.
This 2-1 victory gives Mainz three invaluable points in their relegation fight. For Eintracht Frankfurt, this defeat hinders their European qualification pursuit. The derby delivered another thrilling result.
