Mainz 05 advanced to the second round of the DFB-Pokal with a narrow 1-0 victory over Dynamo Dresden at the Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion. Nadiem Amiri’s direct free kick in the 22nd minute proved to be the decisive goal in a closely contested match.
Despite numerous opportunities for both sides, Dresden was unable to find an equalizer, largely due to a strong performance in goal from Mainz’s Robin Zentner, who notably saved a weakly taken penalty from Lemmer.
The match began at a high tempo, with Dresden initially applying pressure to the Mainz defense. Mainz gradually found their footing and Amiri’s set-piece gave them the lead. While Mainz had further chances to extend their advantage in the first half, Dresden remained a threat going forward.
The second half continued to be fiercely competitive, with Dynamo Dresden pushing for the equalizer. However, the Mainz defense remained resolute. Late in the match, Mainz coach Bo Henriksen received a warning and was instructed to remain within the designated coaching area after leaving his technical zone to retrieve the ball. Despite a tense final period, including six minutes of added time, Dresden failed to break through, securing Mainz’s progression to the next round.
In a concurrent fixture, Fortuna Düsseldorf defeated 1. FC Schweinfurt 4-2, demonstrating increasing confidence as the match progressed, though their start was less assured.