Lech Poznan vs Mainz 05: Match Preview, Predictions, and Lineups
Mainz 05 is set to visit Enea Stadion, aiming to solidify their position in the top eight of the Conference League. Their Polish opponents, Lech Poznan, currently stand at 16th in the league phase table, trailing Mainz by three points after five matchweeks. Mainz is just one point behind the group leaders, Samsunspor.
Recent Performances
Lech Poznan recently secured a win, defeating Lausanne 2-0 on November 27. In that match, they scored twice out of three shots taken in the opponent’s box while successfully defending against 12 shots from Lausanne.
The home team has showcased their offensive strength, netting at least two goals in seven of their last nine matches, including three out of four in European competitions. Currently, they sit only one point behind eighth-placed Drita, while just three points separate them from third-place NK Celje.
Lech Poznan’s Form
- Unbeaten in the last six matches.
- Aiming for a fourth win in six matches.
- Seeking their fourth clean sheet.
- Won three out of their last six home games.
Lech Poznan’s home advantage cannot be overlooked, as they remain unbeaten at Enea Stadion in their last six fixtures, winning their past two.
Mainz 05’s Struggles
On the other hand, Mainz 05 started strong in the Conference League but faltered recently. After winning their first three matches, they suffered a 1-0 loss to Universitatea Craiova on November 27, failing to create any significant chances. With only 10 shots on target this season, they find themselves among the least productive teams in the tournament.
Latest Bundesliga Challenges
In the Bundesliga, their situation is dire. Mainz currently holds the last position with just six points after 13 matchdays, trailing the safety line by six points. They also come into the match with five consecutive away losses, during which they conceded 12 goals.
Team News and Lineups
Lech Poznan may field Antoni Kozubal alongside Pablo Rodriguez, considering injuries to Gisli Thordarson and Filip Jagiello. Mikael Ishak is expected to lead the line, supported by Luis Palma.
Mainz’s new manager, Urs Fischer, is anticipated to implement a structure similar to that of the previous match managed by Benjamin Hoffmann. The lineup will likely feature a back three consisting of Danny da Costa, Andreas Hanche-Olsen, and Maxim Leitsch.
Potential Starting Lineups
| Lech Poznan | Mainz 05 |
|---|---|
| Mrozek | Batz |
| Pereira | Da Costa |
| Monka | Hanche-Olsen |
| Skrzypczak | Leitsch |
| Gurgul | Widmer |
| Kozubal | Sano |
| Rodriguez | Amiri |
| Gholizadeh | Mwene |
| Palma | Hollerbach |
| Bengtsson | Lee |
| Ishak | Weiper |
Match Prediction
Given Mainz’s ongoing challenges this season, expectations are low for their performance on Thursday. Conversely, Lech Poznan has maintained stronger form and could capitalize on any slip-ups by their opponents. A narrow victory for Lech Poznan is predicted, potentially finishing 1-0 against Mainz 05.
