Mainz Held to Draw by Struggling Holstein Kiel in Bundesliga

Mainz's push for a Champions League spot suffered another setback as they were held to a 1-1 draw by struggling Holstein Kiel in the Bundesliga.

Mainz's push for a Champions League spot suffered another setback as they were held to a 1-1 draw by struggling Holstein Kiel. Despite Kiel's precarious position at the bottom of the Bundesliga table, they managed to stay competitive against Mainz, who are currently fourth in the standings. Nelson Weiper's 75th-minute equalizer salvaged a point for Mainz, but the draw does little to ease the pressure on coach Bo Henriksen's team in their quest for a top-four finish.

The points are shared with Kiel.

1-1 | FT | #M05KSV pic.twitter.com/j0SjC8ZxCc

— Mainz 05 English (@Mainz05en) April 5, 2025

The first half was filled with exciting moments, as Kiel came close to breaking the deadlock after just 10 minutes. Nicolai Remberg was put through on goal by Steven Skrzybski's clever delivery, but Mainz goalkeeper Robin Zentner made a crucial save to deny him. Nine minutes later, Mainz's top scorer Jonathan Burkardt had a golden opportunity to score his 16th league goal of the season, but his shot hit the right-hand post after he beat Kiel goalkeeper Thomas Dähne.

Mainz's Zentner Makes Crucial Saves

Mainz goalkeeper Robin Zentner made a series of impressive saves to keep his team in the game, including an acrobatic clearance of Shūto Machino's header. However, Zentner was finally beaten in the 34th minute as Alexander Bernhardsson scored a stunning goal from outside the area, curling the ball into the top corner. The goal seemed to energize Kiel, but Mainz responded strongly after the restart.

Mainz's determination paid off as they hit the upright twice in quick succession, with Anthony Caci's header striking the foot of the post and Steven Skrzybski also hitting the woodwork. The hosts' persistence was eventually rewarded when Nelson Weiper confidently scored from a pinpoint pass by Paul Nebel, earning Mainz a 1-1 draw. The result leaves Mainz just a point ahead of fifth-placed RB Leipzig in the battle for a UEFA Champions League spot, while Kiel's frustrating afternoon means they remain at the bottom of the table and on course for relegation.