Mainz extended their perfect start in the UEFA Conference League by scoring a decisive 95th-minute goal to win 2-1 against Fiorentina at the Mewa Arena. This marked Fiorentina’s 10th loss in 17 encounters with German teams (4 wins, 3 draws).
Both teams, regarded as strong contenders for the Conference League trophy, showed intense effort from the outset. Mainz began with more intent, highlighted by Nelson Weiper, who previously scored the winner against Zrinjski Mostar, directing a promising close-range header straight at Fiorentina’s goalkeeper Tommaso Martinelli.
Fiorentina quickly responded with their first opportunity, which resulted in an important goal. Roberto Piccoli passed to Simon Sohm, who fired a powerful first-time shot past Mainz’s goalkeeper Robin Zentner at the near post.
Simon Sohm celebrated enthusiastically after scoring his first goal for Fiorentina.
Following the goal, Niccolo Fortini’s cross almost allowed Piccoli to score again, but Zentner made a crucial save with his legs. Soon after, Fiorentina had another strong chance when Dodo assisted Jacopo Fazzini, whose shot was blocked by teenage defender Kacper Potulski at close range.
The opening 15 minutes after halftime saw Fiorentina press forward, especially down the right wing, maintaining more promising attacks as they sought to extend their lead.
In the dying moments of the game, Mainz managed to net the winning goal, preserving their 100% record in the competition so far.
Author’s summary: Mainz maintained their flawless UEFA Conference League run by snatching a late winner against Fiorentina, who have now lost ten of seventeen matches against German clubs.