Union Berlin begin 2026 with a home fixture against Mainz, looking to build on a solid first half of the Bundesliga season.
Prediction: Under 2.5 Goals
This matchup points toward a tight and cautious contest. Union’s structured approach and Mainz’s struggles suggest a low-scoring game decided by fine margins.
Union Berlin Rely on Stability and Home Advantage
Union Berlin can be satisfied with their first half of the season, as they currently sit deservedly inside the top eight. The capital club have once again shown that organisation, discipline, and efficiency are the foundations of their success. At home, Union are especially difficult to break down and rarely allow matches to become open or chaotic.
Mainz in Urgent Need of a Turnaround
Mainz enter the second half of the campaign in a very difficult position, rooted to the bottom of the table after collecting just eight points. Urs Fischer faces the challenge of completely reshaping the team’s mentality and performances if survival is to be achieved. This match also carries personal significance for Fischer, as he returns to face his former club, where he enjoyed considerable success. That familiarity could help Mainz stay competitive, at least in terms of organisation.
