On matchday 20 of the Bundesliga, Mainz secured a 2-1 away win in Leipzig.
The Mainz side started the game with a noticeable presence and intensity. After an aggressive press early on, they forced several dangerous chances against Leipzig. However, a foul by Benedict Hollerbach forced the earliest substitution when the first‑team captain was injured and had to be replaced by Silas Katompa Mvumpa.
Leipzig regained rhythm as the match progressed but remained largely inefficient in the final third. The turning point came when Antonio Nusa launched a rapid attack from the left and delivered a precise cross to Conrad Harder. Harder headed past the goalkeeper from close range, giving Leipzig a 1-0 lead. Mainz answered before halftime with a free‑kick. After a tussle inside the box, the referee awarded a penalty, which Nadiem Amiri calmly converted, making the score 1-1 heading into the break.
In the second half Leipzig pressed again for a goal, but the Mainzer defense held firm, limiting clear chances. Mainz stayed dangerous, especially on counterattacks. The decisive moment arrived in the 49th minute when Mainz struck on a quick break. Katompa Mvumpa made an outstanding solo run, dropping several Leipzig defenders and curling a close‑range finish into the net for a 2-1 lead.
Leipzig increased pressure and continually forced Mainz back into defense, yet the Rhineland side remained concentrated and compact. Several substitutions were made on both sides to inject fresh energy, but clear scoring opportunities stayed scarce. Mainz clung to their advantage during a tense final phase as Leipzig tried everything they could, but could not break through.
The final minutes saw Mainz bring on additional fresh legs to sustain the lead and the pressure during stoppage time. Leipzig had a few more set-piece chances, but the Mainz defense held firm and preserved the slender advantage. The match ended with a hard‑earned away victory for Mainz, largely thanks to the impactful performance of substitute Silas Katompa Mvumpa and the robust second‑half display.
Other results from Saturday afternoon: Eintracht Frankfurt 1-3 Bayer Leverkusen, Werder Bremen 1-1 Borussia Mönchengladbach, Hoffenheim 3-1 Union Berlin, FC Augsburg 2-1 FC St. Pauli.